膂
backbone
Strokes14
Readings
On'yomi
- リョ
- ロ
Kun'yomi
- せぼね
Meaning
膂 centers on the backbone as the central structural support of the body, both literally and figuratively.
Most common words using 膂
Study
Etymology
膂 combines 旅 (which may contribute sound) with 肉 (flesh, appearing as 月) to refer to the backbone or spine. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The top component 旅 suggests a journey, and the bottom 月 (flesh) is the body. Picture the backbone as the sturdy central pillar that carries the body through every journey.
Reading mnemonic
For リョ, imagine a strong backbone supporting a traveler on a long journey: the 'ryo' sound echoes the traveler's steady rhythm as they walk.