云 (yún) — Cloud
Single-character Chinese tattoo · verified meaning · fine-line & minimalist friendly
Browse all 云 glyphs ↗Meaning & Nuance
云 (yún) means “cloud” — drifting, formless, and free. In Chinese poetry clouds symbolize leisure and the transcendent life of immortals. As a tattoo it reads as ease and detachment. The simplified 云 is also the character for “to say” in classical Chinese; the traditional weather form is 雲 with the rain radical 雨. Not to be confused with 雨 (yǔ, rain) or 雪 (xuě, snow).
Pronunciation & Form
Pinyin: yún — a second tone (rising) syllable, gliding upward. The simplified 云 is its own shape; the traditional 雲 adds the rain radical 雨 on top.
Common Words & Phrases
Why Get 云 as a Tattoo
云 evokes freedom, calm, and the untethered spirit — a soft single-character tattoo for free souls. Its light, floating form stays elegant small. People choose 云 to symbolize letting go, a love of sky and mountains, or a peaceful drifting mind. It reads clearly as “cloud” and feels gentle and open.
Tattoo Style & Placement
Best fits: fine-line, watercolor, or airy brush styles. 云 works as a small mark on the wrist or collarbone. Placements: inner wrist, forearm, collarbone, or shoulder. Pairs with 风, 山, or 月. Keep the curves open.
Authenticity & Cultural Note
Always confirm the character with a native speaker or linguist before inking. 云 (yún, cloud) differs from 雨 (rain) and 雪 (snow); the traditional weather form is 雲 — verify the exact glyph you want. handmade.ink meanings are checked by native Chinese linguists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Chinese character 云 mean?
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Is 云 a good tattoo for freedom or calm?
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Can 云 also mean “to say”?