Abstract: It is of great importance to find source of terms in Chinese historical phonetics, which also can be helpful for interpretation of meanings in these terms. By analyzing the origin and interpretation of terms “qu yun liu bu”, “yodicization”, “jianyin vs. tuanyin” in six dictionaries, we think that it is necessary to trace terms in compiling phonology dictionary.

Key words: qu yun liu bu, yodicization, jianyin vs. tuanyin, traceability