Definitions

huī signal flag; to signal

Etymology

About

The character 麾 is an ideogrammatic compound combining 麻 (hemp) and 毛 (hair, feather). This structure reflects its original referent: an ancient military standard or signal flag made from animal tails, feathers, and hempen cloth. As such flags were used by generals to direct troops on the battlefield, the meaning extended from the physical object to the commander's authority, and eventually to the verb meaning to command or direct military forces.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Cao Wei (Three Kingdoms: 222-280 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern