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Kotomora

奧

heart, interior

StatusJinmeiyō (variant)Strokes13

Readings

On'yomi

  • オウ
  • オク

Kun'yomi

  • おく.まる
  • くま

Meaning

奧 centers on the deep, innermost part of something: the heart of a matter or the interior of a space. It points to what is hidden, central, or profound.

Study

Etymology

奧 is the traditional form of 奥. It combines 宀 (roof) with 釆 (distinguish) and 大 (big), suggesting a deep, secluded interior space within a building. The modern simplified form 奥 drops one stroke.

Meaning mnemonic

Under a roof (宀), a large (大) hidden space holds the heart of the matter. Picture a vast, dim interior where the deepest secrets are kept.

Reading mnemonic

For オウ, imagine the deep interior of an old house echoing with a long 'Ohhh' sound: Oh -> オウ, as you discover the heart of the building.