About
The character 氅 is a phono-semantic compound with the semantic radical 毛 (hair, fur, or feathers) at the bottom and the phonetic component 敞 at the top. It originally referred to the downy feathers of cranes or other large birds, which were collected to make special garments. This meaning extended to the garment itself, denoting an overcoat, cloak, or outer robe traditionally crafted from bird feathers or animal fur. In modern usage, 氅 primarily describes a long, loose-fitting outer cloak or heavy coat, having relaxed the specific requirement of being made from avian feathers while retaining its association with protective outerwear.
Etymology Hide
