綏
peaceful, cheap, grab strap
Readings
On'yomi
- スイ
- タ
Kun'yomi
- やす.い
Meaning
綏 centers on a state of calm stability: peaceful, settled, or secure. The 'cheap' and 'grab strap' senses are unusual and may reflect specialized or archaic uses that do not clearly connect to the core idea of peace.
Most common words using 綏
- 綏撫すいぶ
lulled into peacefulness; comforted and consoled
Study
Etymology
綏 combines 糸 (thread) with 妥, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of settling or pacifying. The exact historical development is uncertain, but the character is associated with peace and stability, possibly through the image of a restraining cord or a settled state.
Meaning mnemonic
Thread 糸 wrapped around a settled woman 妥 suggests tying things down to keep them peaceful and secure.
Reading mnemonic
For スイ, imagine a peaceful scene where a swan glides on a calm lake: swan -> スイ, and the thread-like ripples settle everything into peace.