[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Anatomy-and-Living \ #Mentality # 哭 kū cry; weep; wail ## Components [[口 (kǒu)]] [[口 kǒu]] [[犬 (quǎn)]] ## Meaning In modern usage, the character 哭 (kū) primarily means "to cry" or "to weep." It can also refer to shedding tears due to sorrow or strong emotions. Additionally, it can indicate mourning or offering condolences. Finally, the character can be used to describe loud wailing or lamentation. ## History The character 哭 (kū) originally depicted people crying under a mulberry tree. In ancient times, mulberry branches were used as funeral symbols. In modern times, paper flags used in happy occasions are marked with mulberry branches. Originally meaning mournful crying, 哭 (kū) has extended meanings including condolences and shedding tears in general. Additionally, it can refer to singing. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[哭oracular 1.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[哭 kū - bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[哭seal.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[哭cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[哭reg.svg]]