[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Abstract-Concepts \ #Properties # 物 wù object; thing ## Components [[牛 (niú)]] [[牛 niú]] [[勿 wù]] ## Meaning Today, the character "物" primarily means "thing" or "object." It refers to any tangible entity or item, encompassing a broad range of physical objects, substances, or entities. It can also extend to abstract concepts or matters. ## History The character "物" combines the meanings of "object" and the sound of "勿". In its ancient form, it depicts a cow with various markings, representing the diversity of things. Over time, it evolved into its current form in calligraphy. According to the "Shuowen Jiezi," it symbolizes all things, with the cow representing significant objects and the concept of creation beginning with the domestication of cattle. Initially denoting a speckled cow, it extended to refer to livestock varieties and grades, eventually encompassing all tangible existences. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[物 wù - ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ? ### Seal Script ![[物 wù - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[物 wù - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[物 wù - reg.svg]]