The spelling of the word "China doll" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with the "tʃ" sound, similar to the word "chin". The second syllable is pronounced with the "aɪ" diphthong, similar to the word "eye". The stress is on the first syllable, making it "CHY-na doll". The term refers to a small figurine made of porcelain or ceramic, typically representing a Chinese woman or girl.
The term "china doll" has two distinct definitions, one referring to a type of doll and the other alluding to a plant species.
Firstly, a "china doll" is a type of delicate and intricately crafted porcelain doll. These dolls originated in China during the 19th century and quickly became popular worldwide due to their exquisite beauty and craftsmanship. They are characterized by their fragile structure, glossy porcelain finish, and intricately painted features. China dolls often display traditional Chinese clothing styles, hairstyles, and accessories. Their name derives from the fact that they were originally produced in China and made of porcelain, also known as "china." These dolls are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical and aesthetic value.
Secondly, the term "china doll" also refers to a plant species known as Radermachera sinica or Serissa japonica. The China doll plant is a small evergreen shrub that is native to Asia. It features glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply divided into smaller leaflets, giving it a fern-like appearance. This plant displays delicate, white, star-shaped flowers with a sweet fragrance. Due to its attractive foliage and ability to thrive indoors, the China doll is a popular choice as a houseplant. It requires bright, indirect light and regular watering to maintain its health. The plant's name stems from its resemblance to the intricate beauty of a porcelain doll, highlighting its elegance and fragility.
The etymology of the word "china doll" can be traced back to the combination of two separate elements: "china" and "doll".
1. China: The term "china" refers to porcelain, a type of ceramic material made from white clay that is typically fired at high temperatures. Porcelain is often associated with fine Chinese ceramics, which have a long history of artistic and cultural significance.
2. Doll: The word "doll" derives from the Middle English word "dol" or "dolle", which means "a doll, puppet, or idol". It has Germanic roots dating back to the 13th century and is connected to the verb "dwellan", meaning "to lead astray or confuse".
The term "china doll" specifically refers to a doll that is made of porcelain or similar materials, often associated with delicate, lifelike features and historically regarded as collectible or decorative objects.