都 (dōu) is a character with a rich history, and its original meaning is quite different from its modern grammatical function.

Here’s a breakdown of its evolution:

• 邑 (yì): This component, also a standalone character, originally depicted a city or a settlement, often surrounded by walls. It signifies a place where people gather and live together.
• 者 (zhě): This component means “person” or “someone.” It adds a human element to the character.

Combining these elements, the original meaning of 都 likely referred to “all the people in a city” or “the capital city,” where the majority of people resided. This sense of a central gathering place and a large population is still reflected in some of its modern usages:

• Capital city: 都 can still refer to a capital city, as in 首都 (shǒudū – capital).
• Large city: It can also be used more generally to describe a major city or metropolis.
• All/everything: This meaning extends from the idea of encompassing all the people or things within a city or a defined group.

The evolution of 都 from a concrete representation of a city to a grammatical function of inclusivity is a fascinating example of how Chinese characters can evolve and adapt over time. The character’s origins still resonate in its modern usage, as it often implies a sense of completeness or totality, encompassing all elements within a defined scope.