image, mate, accidental

偶 is composed of the radical of 人 (person) and 禺 (image). 禺 is a pictograph of a human figure. However, as 禺 developed other meanings, the character 偶 was separately created to take its place. In ancient times, human figures were mainly used as burial companions so that the deceased would have company on the journey to the underworld and would not feel lonely. Therefore, 偶 also means a companion. In addition, it is not easy for a person to meet a suitable companion, and it often depends on luck. From this, 偶 also carries the meaning of by chance or coincidentally.