凱

A phono-semantic compound composed of:

几 (low table; stool) — semantic component

豈 (how?; joyful exclamation) — phonetic component

In early usage, 凱 referred to music or chants performed after a military victory, especially during the return of troops. The character conveys joyful exclamation, celebration, and triumph, rather than the act of fighting itself.

Thus, 凱 emphasizes the moment of victorious return and celebration, not combat.

개선(凱旋) — triumphant return

개가(凱歌) — victory song

개승(凱勝) — great victory (literary)

凱 has a strongly positive and celebratory connotation.

It is not used for ordinary success, but rather for grand, decisive victories, often military or symbolic.

The idea of 凱旋 (triumphant return) became a fixed cultural image in East Asia: victorious troops entering the capital amid music and celebration.

Because of its auspicious meaning, 凱 is frequently used in personal names, especially male names, across Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures.

凱 frequently appears in Chinese historical records, especially in descriptions of generals returning from successful campaigns.

凱旋而歸 — “He returned home in triumph.”

In classical poetry, 凱 evokes martial glory and celebratory atmosphere, often paired with drums, banners, and music.

Related characters:

勝 — victory; to win

捷 — swift victory

旋 — to return; to revolve

歌 — song

功 — merit; achievement