Definitions

tuó sack; tube open at both ends; (onom.) footsteps

Etymology

Pictograph of a bag with both ends tied. Similar in origin to and . represents the sound. As a component in other characters, is almost always omitted.

About

The character "橐" originates from the concept of a sack, and its traditional form incorporates the component "木" at the base, likely alluding to a wooden frame or handle, while the upper section stylizes the bag's shape. Etymologically, it denoted a bag, often one with two openings, and its meaning later extended to specific objects such as a bellows used in ancient smelting processes, as well as serving in onomatopoeic expressions like "橐橐" for mimicking rhythmic sounds. Over time, its usage has become more confined to classical or technical contexts, reflecting a shift from general to specialized applications while maintaining its association with container-like objects.

Etymology Hide

Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern