嗜

A phono-semantic compound:

口 (mouth) — semantic component, indicates actions related to eating, tasting, or enjoyment.

耆 (old; experienced) — phonetic component, supplies the sound and implies long-standing familiarity or habitual behavior.

The original idea behind 嗜 is a taste or preference formed over time, especially something repeatedly enjoyed.

The meanings of 嗜 developed in the following direction:

- to enjoy or relish (especially food)

- to be fond of; to like strongly

- to have a habitual preference or addiction

- to indulge in something repeatedly

Because of this nuance, 嗜 often implies more than casual liking—it suggests attachment or habitual enjoyment.

嗜好 (기호) — taste; preference

Closely related characters:

好 — to like

樂 — to enjoy; pleasure

愛 — to love

癖 — addiction; obsession

Opposite or tension characters:

厭 — to dislike; to be weary of

惡 — to hate; evil

禁 — to restrain; to prohibit