乏

A derivative-ideograph formed by inverting the shape of 正.

In ancient explanation:

正 (right, proper) when reversed or distorted indicates “not right,” “improper,” and by extension: “lack,” “deficiency,” “insufficiency.”

Thus the character visually expresses the absence of correctness or fullness, symbolizing shortage.

《說文解字》 (Shuowen Jiezi):

「乏，無也。」

“乏 means ‘to have none.’”

Common compounds in Classical and Modern Chinese include:

匱乏 — to be in want, to be short of

貧乏 — poor, impoverished

無乏 — without lack

Classical citations:

《詩經》 (The Book of Songs)

「民亦勞止，汔可小乏。」

“The people are weary; they are already somewhat exhausted.”

《後漢書》 (Book of the Later Han Dynasty)

「軍中糧乏。」

“The army’s provisions were lacking.”