皀
fragrant, grain
Strokes7
Readings
On'yomi
- キュウ
- ヒョク
- キョウ
- コウ
Kun'yomi
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Meaning
皀 centers on the idea of fragrant grain, likely referring to cooked grain or rice that gives off a pleasant aroma. The two meanings are closely linked: the grain itself and its characteristic fragrance.
Most common words using 皀
- 皀莢さいかち
honey locust (Gleditsia japonica)
Study
Etymology
皀 is an ancient character depicting a container of fragrant grain, possibly a ritual vessel. The top 白 may represent the grain or its aroma, while 匕 could be a ladle or base. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
Picture a bowl of steaming white rice (白) with a spoon (匕) resting in it, releasing a fragrant aroma. The grain is cooked and smells wonderful.
Reading mnemonic
For キュウ, imagine the fragrant grain being offered as a cure (cure -> キュウ) for hunger, with the steam carrying the scent.