About
The character 钺, whose traditional form is 鉞, originates from the component 戉, a pictographic element representing an axe-head, which was later combined with the metal radical, appearing as 钅 in the simplified form and 金 in the traditional, to specify a weapon made of metal. Initially denoting a bronze battle-axe used in both combat and ritual ceremonies during early Chinese dynasties, the term's application extended over centuries to include ceremonial axes that served as emblems of authority and power within imperial contexts. In modern usage, 钺 continues to refer primarily to this ancient weapon, appearing in historical and archaeological discussions.
Etymology Hide
