Etymological Exchange
The transmission of knowledge and materials between the two cultures during ancient times can still be seen in the Persian roots in Chinese loan words. These words typically come from the dialects of the Elamites:
| Term | Chinese | Pinyin | Persian root | Persian Romanization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lion | 獅/狮 | shī | شیر | Shir |
| Alfalfa | 苜蓿 | mù-xǖ | buksuk | |
| Grapes | 葡萄/蒲桃 | pú táo | budāwa or buda | |
| Pomegranate | (安)石榴 | (ān) shí líu | آرتساخ | Arsak |
| Amber | 琥珀 | hǔpò | کهربا | keherba |
| Wolfberry | 枸杞 | gǒuqǐ | گوجه | gojeh |
| Suona | 嗩吶 | suǒnà | سورنا | sornā |
Read more about this topic: Sino-Persian Relations
Famous quotes containing the word exchange:
“The social kiss is an exchange of insincerity between two combatants on the field of social advancement. It places hygiene before affection and condescension before all else.”
—Sunday Correspondent (London, Aug. 12, 1990)