Definitions

jiū lots (to be drawn); lot (in a game of chance)

Etymology

About

is the simplified form of , which originally combined (fight, struggle) and (turtle) as a phonetic and semantic component. This structure evokes the historical practice of using turtle shells for divination and drawing lots to settle disputes or make difficult choices. When simplified, the outer became and was reduced to . The character now means drawing lots to decide outcomes or distribute items.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern