姈
wise woman, sage woman
Strokes8
Readings
On'yomi
- レイ
- リョウ
Kun'yomi
- あざな
Meaning
姈 centers on a woman of exceptional insight and wisdom, a sage-like female figure. The meanings 'wise woman' and 'sage woman' are essentially synonymous, both pointing to a woman revered for her deep understanding.
Study
Etymology
姈 combines 女 (woman) with 令, which likely contributes the sound and possibly the idea of command or excellence, suggesting a woman of commanding wisdom. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
A woman 女 beside 令, which looks like a commanding figure under a roof, suggests a woman whose wisdom and authority make her a sage.
Reading mnemonic
For レイ, imagine a wise woman laying down the law with a ray of insight: ray -> レイ, and her wisdom shines like a beam of light.