(old) (of a bride-to-be) to bind one's hair into a bun
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtóu
on top of
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtóu
(of a prostitute) to receive a patron for the first time
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtóu
on the surface of
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
(of alcohol) to go to one's head
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
above
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
(old) (of a bride-to-be) to bind one's hair into a bun
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
on top of
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
(of a prostitute) to receive a patron for the first time
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
上头
shàngtou
on the surface of
HSK 7, unknown, rank #7531, Hard
shàngtóu(shang4tou2)
primary
T4
1(of alcohol) to go to one's head
2above
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
上头(上頭)shàngtóu(shang4tou2)
上头 (shàng tóu) refers to something being above or on top of something else. In classical contexts, it can also describe the effects of alcohol making someone feel lightheaded or intoxicated. Additionally, it historically pertains to the way a bride would style her hair in a bun, or to the initial encounter of a prostitute with a client.
Frequency#7531DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese weddings, the style of a bride's hair is significant, often reflecting her status and beauty. The concept of 上头 also hints at the historical societal views on alcohol and its effects.
Memory Tip
Imagine a bride (上) in a grand hall (头) with her hair styled in a bun on top of her head. Visualize how she feels lightheaded from the excitement and possibly from a celebratory drink, connecting the idea of being 'on top' with the feeling of being 'above' and 'heady'.
Meanings of 上头
shàngtóu(shang4tou2)
primary
1(of alcohol) to go to one's head
2above
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 上头
上头Simplified
上頭Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 上头
Podcast: 上头
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 上头
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a bride (上) in a grand hall (头) with her hair styled in a bun on top of her head. Visualize how she feels lightheaded from the excitement and possibly from a celebratory drink, connecting the idea of being 'on top' with the feeling of being 'above' and 'heady'.
Usage Notes
上头 is often used in informal conversations about drinking or lightheadedness. Learners should be cautious not to confuse it with similar expressions that denote elevation or intoxication. The tone is typically neutral, but context is key, especially when discussing sensitive topics like relationships.
HSK Study Tips
Though 上头 is not part of the standard HSK curriculum, understanding its components can help learners connect with other vocabulary related to elevation and states of being. Focus on the character 上 (above) and how it combines with other terms to expand your vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese weddings, the style of a bride's hair is significant, often reflecting her status and beauty. The concept of 上头 also hints at the historical societal views on alcohol and its effects.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 上头 with other similar phrases that denote elevation, such as 在上 (zài shàng) meaning 'to be on top of'. Remember, 上头 specifically implies an effect or a state, particularly with intoxication or traditional customs.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 上头
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 上头 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 上头 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 上头
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese weddings, the style of a bride's hair is significant, often reflecting her status and beauty. The concept of 上头 also hints at the historical societal views on alcohol and its effects.
Frequently Asked Questions about 上头
It refers to the feeling of intoxication or lightheadedness that comes from consuming alcohol.
It often describes physical or social states, such as a bride preparing for marriage or the effects of alcohol.
No, it is more commonly used in informal speech, particularly in everyday conversations.
