商 (Shāng)

Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BC); surname Shang

11 strokes

Etymology

Origin unclear. Composed of 辛 (chisel) and 丙 (pedestal) with 口 being later added as a distinguishing component for the name of an ancient kingdom.

Shuowen Jiezi

《說文》：“商，从外知內也。从，章省聲。，古文商。，亦古文商。，籀文商。”

Components

辛 (unknown) — The purpose of this component is unclear.
丙 (unknown) — The purpose of this component is unclear.
口 (distinguishing) — This component was later added when the character was used for the name of an ancient kingdom.