Definitions

tin, solder

Etymology phono-semantic

metal

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character , whose traditional form is , is a phono-semantic compound coined for a specific metal alloy. The element on the left, a simplified form of the radical , indicates that the term falls within the semantic field of metals, metallurgy, or metallic objects. The right-hand element is the phonetic component, giving the character its pronunciation. Historically, has denoted solder: a low-melting-point alloy, traditionally a blend of tin and lead, that is melted to join or mend metal workpieces. This practical material is central to the craft of soldering, a fundamental technique in metal repair and fabrication.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Warring States (~400 BC)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern