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A phono-semantic compound, 鹗 (traditional 鶚) combines the bird radical 鸟 with the phonetic 咢, where the radical signals a bird and the phonetic provides the sound along with a historical connotation of startling or frightening. This connotation is fitting for the osprey, a formidable fish eagle armed with sharp talons and known for aggressive hunting over bodies of water. In classical Chinese literature and poetry, the character was frequently used as a symbol of martial prowess, fierce independence, and stern authority, offering vivid metaphors for capable generals and uncompromising officials.
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