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As a phono-semantic compound, 锒 uses the left-side radical 钅 to indicate its semantic connection to metals and metalworking, while the right-side component 良 provides its phonetic value. Its traditional form 鎯 combines the unsimplified metal radical 釒 with the same phonetic element. The character is seldom used alone, most commonly appearing in the compound 锒铛. This term refers either to heavy iron shackles or to the clanking sound of metal striking metal, thereby associating 锒 with imprisonment and physical restraint.
Etymology Hide
