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On'yomi
カン
KAN

coffin · casket

Details

Strokes12
Frequency#2161
Radicaltree(4)

Stroke Order

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Strokes12

Component Breakdown

=

tree + 官

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of tree and official. Wooden box for official.

Symbolism

Coffin, funeral, death. Represents box for the dead.

Words & Expressions

Proverbs & Idioms

棺を蓋いて事定まる

かんをおおいてことさだまる

Only when the coffin is closed is one's life judged

A person's true worth is only determined after death

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 棺 mean in Japanese?

棺 means coffin, casket.

How do you read 棺?

On'yomi: カン (KAN).

How many strokes does 棺 have?

棺 has 12 strokes. Its radical is 木 (tree).

Is 棺 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 棺 (coffin, casket) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.