Origin

This character combines the radical for "words" or "speech" on the left with a component suggesting care and restraint on the right. The right side, which includes elements evoking caution and careful placement, reinforces the idea of being thoughtful and measured. Together, the character represents careful, respectful speech—the kind you use when being discreet or humble. The visual pairing of "words" with this component of restraint creates the meaning of speaking and acting with reverence and discretion.

AI-generated (claude-haiku-4-5), not yet reviewed. Formation type (automated guess): Compound ideographic (combined meanings).