tribute

貢 is composed of 工 (tool) and 貝 (shell). 工 depicts a shovel-like tool, resembling a carrying pole with goods balanced on both ends, while 貝 signifies wealth or valuables. Thus, 貢 originally meant carrying goods on the shoulder, but this meaning was later taken over by 摃. Nowadays, 貢 refers to transporting valuables to others, meaning to present or offer tribute.