Definitions

kòu used in 豆蔻[dòu kòu]

Etymology phono-semantic

herb

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character is a phono-semantic compound combining the semantic grass radical on top and the phonetic component below. Like many specialized botanical characters, it functions as a bound morpheme and is rarely used on its own. Its main occurrence is in the noun 豆蔻, referring to the cardamom plant or its seeds. It may also appear in traditional plant classifications or as a poetic symbol of blooming youth, never extending its meaning outside the botanical realm.