Definitions
shrike
Etymology
About
The character 鴃 is a phono-semantic compound with the semantic component 鳥, denoting its category as a bird, and the phonetic component 夬. Originally designating a specific bird, such as a shrike, it appeared in early classical works where the term "鴃舌" was coined to metaphorically describe speech perceived as foreign or incomprehensible, comparing it to the bird's call. This metaphorical usage became entrenched in literary language, while the character's ornithological reference continued. The traditional form of 鴃 has consistently been composed of these two elements.
Etymology Hide
