[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Anatomy-and-Living \ #Forms-and-Shapes # 美 měi beauty ## Components [[羊 yáng]] [[大 (dà)]] ## Meaning Today, the character 美 (měi) primarily means "beautiful" or "beauty" in Mandarin Chinese. It's commonly used to describe physical attractiveness, aesthetics, or pleasant appearances in various contexts, such as describing scenery, artwork, or individuals. Additionally, it can connote positivity or excellence in general, reflecting a broader sense of beauty beyond just appearances. This can include beautiful experiences, emotions, or actions that evoke admiration or appreciation. ## History The character 美 (měi) originated from pictograms depicting a person adorned with either goat horns or feathers, symbolizing exceptional beauty. Initially meaning "beautiful," it evolved to convey joy or praise, as seen in expressions like "美滋滋" (měi zī zī), indicating happiness. Its ancient form, a standing person, evolved over time, maintaining its essence. In ancient texts, 美 also meant "sweet" or "pleasant," reflecting the excellence of flavor and quality, often associated with the principal source of meat among domestic animals. Its primary meaning remains physical beauty, extending to describe delicious flavors and moral excellence. It can also refer to good deeds or virtues, like "美德" (měidé), representing moral goodness. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[美 měi - ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[美 měi - bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[美 měi - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[美 měi - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[美 měi - reg.svg]]