綮
emblem on banner
Strokes14
Readings
On'yomi
- ケイ
Kun'yomi
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Meaning
綮 centers on a symbolic emblem or insignia displayed on a banner, representing a mark of identity or authority.
Most common words using 綮
- 肯綮こうけい
the essential point
Study
Etymology
綮 combines 糸 (thread, cloth) with a phonetic element that includes 戸 and 攵, likely representing a sound like ケイ. The character originally referred to an embroidered emblem on a banner.
Meaning mnemonic
Picture a banner with the 糸 (thread) component at the bottom, as if the emblem is woven into the fabric. The upper part looks like a door (戸) with a striking action (攵), like a herald announcing the emblem.
Reading mnemonic
For ケイ, imagine a banner with a large letter 'K' (ケイ) embroidered on it, standing for the kingdom's emblem.