說

言 (speech, words) – semantic component, related to speech and communication;

兌 (exchange, change) – phonetic component contributing the sounds shuo/shui/yue and adding nuance of “exchange” or “interaction.”

Originally indicated speaking or explaining (言) with an added nuance of exchange or interaction (兌).

Over time, different readings developed, expanding the meanings to include:

• soothing or persuading (using words to calm or convince someone);

• pleasing or delighting (later linked to 悅 “joy”);

• loosening or taking off (linked to 脫 “to remove”).