The kanji 公 generally conveys the idea of "public," "official," or "fair." It often refers to something that is open, not private, and accessible to everyone. It can also imply a sense of impartiality and justice.

・On-yomi (音読み): こう (kō) ・Kun-yomi (訓読み): おおやけ (ōyake)

⚫︎ 公平（こうへい） Translation: Fairness; impartiality ⚫︎ 公務員（こうむいん） Translation: Civil servant; public official ⚫︎ 公園（こうえん） Translation: Park

The kanji 公 is a pictograph. It depicts the hand 手手 holding something out, representing something being shared or offered to the public. The original form of the character shows a hand holding something up to show others. This signifies the intention of sharing, and making something open. Over time, the form has simplified.