功臣 Traditional form: 功臣 Pinyin (reading): gōngchén Definitions: meritorious official person who renders exceptional service; hero (fig.) sth that plays a vital role Characters: 功 - achievement, good work; merit; service 臣 - minister, statesman, official, vassal Traditional characters: 功 - achievement, good work; merit; service 臣 - minister, statesman, official, vassal