嶇
steep
Strokes14
Readings
On'yomi
- ク
Kun'yomi
- けわ.しい
Meaning
嶇 centers on steep, rugged terrain, describing a mountain slope that is sharply inclined and difficult to traverse.
Most common words using 嶇
- 崎嶇きく
steep (mountain); precipitous
Study
Etymology
嶇 combines 山 (mountain) with 區, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of a rugged, uneven area. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The left side is a mountain 山, and the right side 區 looks like a cluster of uneven boxes. Picture a mountain with jagged, boxy cliffs that make the slope dangerously steep.
Reading mnemonic
For ク, imagine a steep mountain path so sharp it makes you say 'coo!' in awe: coo -> ク, as you stare up at the steep slope.