Definitions

(fishing net); woolen rug

Etymology

About

is a phono-semantic compound: the net radical at the top historically categorized items woven from threads or ropes, while the phonetic is placed below. Although the radical suggests nets or traps, the character's primary historical meaning refers to woven woolen rugs, carpets, or felt for warmth and decoration. The material aspect of the woven radical takes precedence over its original functional sense.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern