象征
xiàngzhēng · HSK 5
symbol
🐘 象 = elephant + 征 = sign/expedition; an elephant-sized sign stands for something
象 alone means elephant but also resemblance/likeness; 征 carries the sense of evidence or token. Together 象征 names a thing that stands in for an idea — a symbol or emblem.
征 — 彳 (step) + 正 (upright/correct)
Originally written 征, this character combines 彳 'step/walk' with 正 'upright,' suggesting a righteous march or expedition. It first meant a military campaign or journey to subdue, then broadened to 'to go on a long trip' and figuratively 'to levy' (as in collecting taxes during campaigns).