阵
zhèn · HSK 4
wave
⚔️ 阵 = 阝(mound) + 车(chariot); a battle formation, now a measure word for bursts
Originally chariots arrayed by a mound for battle — a military formation. As a measure word it counts short bursts or spells of events: 一阵雨 a spell of rain, 一阵风 a gust of wind, 一阵笑声 a burst of laughter.
阵 — 阜 (阝, mound) + 车 (chariot)
Originally depicted chariots arrayed beside a mound or earthwork, evoking a battle formation. The 阝 (mound) component suggests terrain, while 车 (chariot) points to military deployment. Meaning broadened from 'battle array' to 'a spell, burst, or short period.'