彰
patent, clear
Readings
On'yomi
- ショウ
Kun'yomi
—
Nanori
- あき
- あきら
Meaning
彰 centers on making something clearly visible or publicly recognized: a patent is an official public declaration, and clear means evident or manifest.
Most common words using 彰
- 表彰ひょうしょうN1
(official) commendation; public recognition (of someone's achievements, good deeds, etc.); awarding; honouring
- 表彰台ひょうしょうだい
victory stand; winners' podium
- 顕彰けんしょう
honouring (publicly); honoring; making someone's good deeds or achievements well-known
- 表彰状ひょうしょうじょうN1
testimonial; certificate of commendation
- 受彰じゅしょう
receiving a commendation; receiving an award
- 彰徳しょうとく
public praise; making another's virtues well-known
- 彰義隊しょうぎたい
Shōgitai (group of former Tokugawa retainers opposed to the Meiji government and fought in the battle of Ueno)
- 表彰式ひょうしょうしき
commendation ceremony; award ceremony
Study
Etymology
彰 combines 章 (a clear pattern or emblem) with 彡 (fine lines or decoration), suggesting making a pattern distinct or manifest. The exact historical development is uncertain, but the component combination fits the meaning of making something clear or patent.
Meaning mnemonic
章 is a clear emblem or badge, and 彡 adds decorative lines that make it stand out. Together, 彰 means making something patent and clear, like a badge displayed prominently.
Reading mnemonic
For ショウ, imagine a patent officer named Show who stamps documents to make them official: Show -> ショウ, and the stamp makes the patent clear.