肅 (sù)

Etymology

Depicts a hand holding a bamboo stick (聿) walking on the edge of an abyss (𣶒). Based on the original meaning "to tremble with fear". The meaning later shifted to "solemn" and "pay respects".

Shuowen Jiezi

《說文》：“肅，持事振敬也。从在上，戰戰兢兢也。，古文肅。从心，从卪。”

Original meaning

to tremble with fear

Components

• 聿 (iconic, remnant) — Used here to depict a hand holding a bamboo stick.
• 𣶒 (iconic) — Depicts a deep pool filled with water.