嶸
high, steep, lofty, towering
Strokes17
Readings
On'yomi
- コウ
- オウ
- エイ
- ヨウ
Kun'yomi
- けわ.しい
Meaning
嶸 centers on extreme verticality: a mountain that is high, steep, lofty, or towering. All given meanings describe a dramatic, imposing upward rise.
Study
Etymology
嶸 combines 山 (mountain) with 榮, which likely contributes the sound and reinforces the idea of flourishing or towering height. The exact historical development of the right component is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The left side is a mountain 山, and the right side 榮 looks like a tall, ornate structure with a roof and trees. Picture a mountain so high it seems to support a towering, flourishing palace.
Reading mnemonic
For コウ, imagine a towering mountain so high it scrapes the sky, and a climber shouts 'Go!' (コウ) as they begin the steep ascent.