Definitions
Etymology
Pictograph of a twisted thread.
About
The character 幺 originated as a pictograph of a fine thread or small silk bundle, embodying the core idea of something tiny or insignificant. As a radical, it forms the basis for many characters related to smallness, silk, or subtle qualities. Beyond its meaning of "small", 幺 also came to represent the number one, especially in contexts like dice games, dominoes, phone numbers, or military communication, where it helps prevent confusion with other numerals. Its simple, singular structure visually echoes its meaning as the smallest unit.
Etymology Hide
