虬
young dragon
Strokes7
Readings
On'yomi
- キュウ
- ク
- キョウ
Kun'yomi
- みずち
Meaning
虬 centers on a young dragon, a mythical creature in its early, often serpentine form.
Most common words using 虬
- 虬竜きゅうりょう
mizuchi; aquatic, dragon-like beast with four feet, horns and poisonous breath
Study
Etymology
虬 combines 虫 (insect/reptile) with 乚, a hook-like component that may represent a coiled or curved shape, suggesting a dragon-like creature. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The left side 虫 suggests a scaly, insect-like creature, and the right side 乚 looks like a curled tail or horn. Together they form a young dragon, still small and serpentine.
Reading mnemonic
For キュウ, imagine a young dragon letting out a high-pitched 'cue!' sound: cue -> キュウ, as it coils its tiny tail.