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The character 罾 structurally integrates the net radical 罒 with the phonetic component 曾, etymologically linking it to fishing implements while indicating its pronunciation. Originally denoting a specific type of square lift net used in ancient fishing practices, the term later acquired a verbal sense meaning to catch fish with such a net, demonstrating a semantic extension from the object itself to the action associated with its use. Its compositional elements have consistently reflected this core meaning throughout its historical appearance in written texts.
Etymology Hide
