[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Anatomy-and-Living \ #Human-Body # 手 shǒu hand ## Components [[手 (shǒu)]] ## Meaning The character "手" represents the concept of a "hand," which is an anatomical part of the human body consisting of the palm and fingers. It is used for grasping, holding, and manipulating objects. ## Evolution - The character "手" originated as a pictogram of a human hand, with the fingers extended and the thumb resting against the palm. This primitive depiction gradually evolved into the more stylized form seen in modern Chinese script. - In ancient oracle bone script, the character "手" was more pictographic, resembling an actual hand with fingers. - Over time, the character underwent simplification and standardization, resulting in its current form used in modern Chinese writing. The simplification process aimed to make the character easier to write and recognize while preserving its essential meaning. ### Oracular Script ![[手 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[手 bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[手 sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[手 cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[手 reg.svg]] ---