The kanji 兄 primarily means "elder brother" or "older brother". It represents a male sibling who is older than oneself.

・On-yomi (音読み): ケイ (kei) ・Kun-yomi (訓読み): あに (ani)

⚫︎兄（あに） Translation: Older brother ⚫︎兄弟（きょうだい） Translation: Siblings (brothers and sisters) ⚫︎兄貴（あにき） Translation: Informal term for "older brother", often used affectionately or respectfully.

The kanji 兄 is a pictograph. The original form depicted a person, specifically a man, standing with his arms outstretched. The outstretched arms suggested the role of an elder brother: someone who can protect and care for younger siblings. Over time, the form was simplified.