叟
old person
Strokes10
Readings
On'yomi
- ソウ
- シュウ
Kun'yomi
- おきな
Meaning
叟 centers on an old person, specifically an elderly man. It is a character used to denote advanced age and the respect or frailty that comes with it.
Most common words using 叟
Study
Etymology
叟 is an ancient character depicting an old man. The upper part is thought to represent a roof or a hunched figure, while the lower 又 (hand) may suggest frailty or support. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The top looks like a hunched old man under a roof, and the bottom 又 is a hand reaching for a cane. Together they show an elderly person needing support.
Reading mnemonic
For ソウ, imagine an old man with a soulful gaze: soul -> ソウ, and his aged face tells a long story.