銘

A phono-semantic compound consisting of:

金 (metal) — semantic component, indicating metal, reflects the original practice of engraving inscriptions on bronze objects;

名 — phonetic component, supplying the sound (명 / míng).

Thus, the original meaning was “to inscribe a name or record onto metal.”

Semantic development:

- to engrave on metal;

- written inscription;

- memorial text;

- to engrave in memory.

The metaphor from physical engraving to mental engraving is central to its usage.

In Korean, 銘 frequently appears in moral or reflective contexts.

명심 (銘心) — to engrave in one’s heart; to remember deeply

좌우명 (座右銘) — motto; maxim kept by one’s side

명문 (銘文) — inscription

비명 (碑銘) — epitaph inscription

銘 combines permanence (metal) with memory — symbolizing lasting remembrance.