About
The character 翕 is a phono-semantic and ideogrammic compound, with 合 ('join, unite') placed above 羽 ('feathers, birds'), together evoking the idea of birds flocking together. Its original meaning is precisely this gathering of birds. From this literal image, the character broadened to signify convergence, collection, and harmonious blending, often used in classical texts for unified group movement or the mixing of disparate elements. It also developed an adverbial sense indicating that something occurs in unison or with coordinated action, echoing the synchronized motion of a flock.
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