Definitions

an alms bowl; a small bell

Etymology

About

is a phono-semantic compound: the left-side radical signals the semantic category of metals, bronze, or metallic objects, and the right-side component provides the sound. Etymologically, the character was used for ancient metallic implements. In some contexts, it refers to a specialized metal measuring vessel for determining capacities; in others, it names an ancient musical instrument, a bell or similar percussive device made from bronze or metal alloys. Thus, could denote either a practical measurement tool or an acoustic instrument, with the intended sense clarified by the literary or historical context.