平均
へいきん · heikin · JLPT N3 · noun
average
⚖️ 平均 = level + even: spread things level and evenly, and you get the average
平 means flat or level, as in 平和 (peace). 均 means equal or even, as in 均等 (equality). Put level and even together and you get balance, and in maths, the average.
平 — horizontal stroke 一 + 干 with two dots 八
平 originally depicted a balance or scale being level, suggesting evenness. The horizontal lines and symmetrical dots evoke a flat, balanced surface. Over time it extended from 'level/flat' to broader senses like 'calm,' 'peaceful,' and 'ordinary.'