About
The character "驷" (traditional form: 駟) is a phono-semantic compound, combining the semantic component "马" (horse) with the phonetic component "四" (four). This structure directly denotes its original meaning: a team of four horses harnessed together, typically pulling a chariot. Over time, the term's usage expanded from specifically denoting the quartet of horses to also refer to the chariot or carriage drawn by them. In classical texts, it could also function as a general counter for groups of four horses. The character's form and core concept have remained consistent, with its components clearly indicating its fundamental association with a four-horse unit.
Etymology Hide
