The etymology of Chinese characters remains a place where certainties are on a slippery ground. The 3000-4000 years of history of Chinese writing leaves some unknowns and the door open to interpretations without foundation or with.
The character 聊, liáo, chat, discuss, is a witness to this. One of the ancient spellings has multiple interpretations.
The first sense is a small noise, buzzing near the ear
.
. On the right, the character 
remembers two door or window leaves. It is a noise like when the leaves open and close 
. By extension, to chat.
- On the left 耳, the ear gives the meaning, and on the right, 卯 mǎo, the sound.
- Two people and an ear . This last interpretation is part of a theory which sees in the right part 卯 two people kneeling face to face:
At least, reflecting on these differences, one remembers his writing.
Other articles on characters :
4 October 2020