隷

Etymology

Combines 'hill' (阝) with 'capture' (柰), representing the status of being captured and serving—servitude.

Symbolism

Symbolizes servitude, subordination, and a calligraphy style. Represents loss of freedom and clerical script in calligraphy.

Related Culture & Scenes

• — Water flowing to low ground

What does 隷 mean in Japanese?

隷 means slave, servant, prisoner, criminal, follower.

How do you read 隷?

On'yomi: レイ (REI). Kun'yomi: したが.う、しもべ (shitagau, shimobe).

How many strokes does 隷 have?

隷 has 16 strokes. Its radical is 隶 (slave).

Is 隷 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 隷 (slave, servant, prisoner, criminal, follower) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.