友 Yǒu

The Oracle Bone form of 友 depicts two right hands. A common interpretation is two right hands held together in a handshake; as handshaking was a common ritual of camaraderie, respect and goodwill and is still used today in many cultures. Another popular interpretation is that 友 depicts two hands side-by-side in companionship or extended to help each other. Both interpretations demonstrate the care and love amongst friends. Through 友, we can see how Chinese culture draws a correlation between morality and friendship.

When used as a radical, "友" is written as "又". The radical "又" also means "And", "Also" and "Again" and can be found as a component in many words, such as 双（dual),
欢 (joyous), 劝 (advised), 观 (outlook).

• Category:Radical, Word
• Formation Method:Pictograph