曼
extend, spread, graceful
曼 is composed of 冃 (hat), a variant of 目 (eye), and 又 (hand). 冃 is a pictograph of a hat, signifying shielding from intense light above, while 又 depicts a hand, implying blocking the scenery below to allow the eyes to focus on distant objects. Thus, 曼 originally means gazing far into the distance, later extending to imply prolongation or unfolding. Additionally, distant scenery appears softer in outline and color, so 曼 also means graceful or refined beauty.
Vocabulary of 曼
- 曼妙 (graceful)
- 曼舞 (graceful dance)