节
jié · HSK 2
solar term
🎍 节 = bamboo joint; each node marks a segment, so it counts events/festivals
Originally a bamboo node — the knot between segments. From there it extends to any division point: a festival (节日), a section, or a measure word for events and class periods.
节 — bamboo radical 竹 (⺮) + 即
Originally written 節, depicting a bamboo joint — the segmented node where a stalk divides. The bamboo radical ⺮ gives the meaning, while 即 supplies the sound. From 'bamboo joint' the meaning expanded to any segment, hence 'section,' 'festival' (a marked point in the year), and 'restraint' (knowing where to stop).