噎
choke, smother
Strokes15
Readings
On'yomi
- イツ
- エツ
Kun'yomi
- む.せる
- むせ.ぶ
Meaning
噎 centers on the physical sensation of something blocking the throat: choking, or being smothered and unable to breathe freely.
Most common words using 噎
Study
Etymology
噎 combines 口 (mouth) with 壹, which likely contributes the sound and may relate to the idea of blockage or fullness. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The mouth 口 is blocked by the dense shape 壹, like a lump of food stuck in the throat. Picture trying to breathe but the airway is smothered.
Reading mnemonic
For イツ, imagine the sound of a sudden choke: a sharp 'itsu!' gasp as air is cut off. The choked cry 'itsu' cues イツ while the mouth struggles against the blockage.