Definitions
to obtain by deception
Etymology
About
The character "餂" is structured with the semantic component "食" on the left, relating to eating, and the component "舌" on the right, representing the tongue, which together indicate an action involving the tongue and food. Its etymology suggests an original meaning of licking or tasting, as the tongue is directly involved in such activities. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the figurative sense of coaxing or persuading through flattery, evident in classical literature where it described enticing speech rather than just physical action. The traditional form "餂" retains this composition, though the character has seen diminished use in contemporary language, with its literal sense often expressed by other characters.