幾 (jǐ)

small table; how many; a few, some

Etymology

Depicts a weapon (戈) cutting ropes (𢆶) tied around a person (人). Based on the original meaning "danger". The current meaning is a phonetic loan.

Shuowen Jiezi

《說文》:“幾,微也,殆也。从,从戍。戍,兵守也。而兵守者危也。”

Original meaning

danger

Components