翕
gather
Strokes12
Readings
On'yomi
- キュウ
Kun'yomi
- あ.う
Meaning
翕 centers on bringing things together into one place: gathering, collecting, or assembling. The single given meaning "gather" is the core idea.
Most common words using 翕
- 翕然きゅうぜん
(coming together) as one; with one accord; unanimously
Study
Etymology
翕 combines 合 (to join, fit together) and 羽 (feathers, wings), suggesting the idea of wings folding together or gathering. The exact historical development is uncertain, but the component combination likely reinforces the meaning of gathering or closing.
Meaning mnemonic
合 on top means to join or fit together, and 羽 at the bottom means feathers or wings. Picture a bird folding its wings together, gathering them close to its body.
Reading mnemonic
For キュウ, imagine a bird gathering its wings and letting out a soft "cue" sound: cue -> キュウ, as the wings come together.