Definitions

shào surname Shao
shào stimulate to effort

Etymology phono-semantic

strength

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

is a phono-semantic compound combining semantic (strength, effort) and phonetic . It originally meant to encourage or to exert oneself. It also conveys the meaning of excellent or admirable, often describing lofty virtue or outstanding ability in classical texts, as in 年高德劭 (advanced in years and virtue). The components together suggest the active expression of positive qualities.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Jin dynasty (266-316 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern