The kanji 兄 means "elder brother" or "older brother". It represents a male sibling who is older than oneself. It implies a relationship of seniority and familial connection. The core meaning revolves around the concept of age and the role within a family.

・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/or sisters) ⚫︎ 兄妹 (けいまい) Translation: Older brother and younger sister

The kanji 兄 is a pictograph. It depicts a person standing with their arms crossed, symbolizing a person older and more responsible. The top part is a person's head, and the bottom parts represent the person's legs. The character evolved over time, becoming more stylized but retaining the essence of an elder brother's role within the family structure. The current form is a combination of these elements, emphasizing the concept of an older male sibling.