窃取
qiè qǔ · HSK 7
to steal
🦝 窃 (steal secretly) + 取 (take/seize) = take by stealth → to steal
A two-verb compound: 窃 means to do something secretly or pilfer, and 取 means to take or grab. Stacked together they mean to steal or seize. The 穴 roof on 窃 marks a hidden, sneaky act done out of sight.
取 — ear 耳 + hand 又
取 originally depicted a hand (又) grasping an ear (耳), referencing the ancient practice of soldiers cutting off enemies' left ears as proof of kills to claim rewards. The meaning broadened from 'seize/take by force' to the general sense of 'take, get, obtain' used today.