Origin

This character most likely combines the mouth radical (the element suggesting speech or opening) with components that originally depicted the act of opening or revealing something. The shape suggests an opening or disclosure, fitting with meanings like "open" and "disclose." Over time, the visual representation became associated with the idea of revealing information or making something known, which is why it carries meanings related to disclosure and explanation. The character's structure reflects how an opened mouth can both literally open and figuratively disclose or teach (the kun'yomi "say" and "enlighten").