抱

Physical: Encircling or enclosing an object with the arms to bring it close to the torso. Depending on the object, this may be rendered as embracing or cradling (people/precious objects) or carrying and clutching (bulkier items).

Abstract: Internal containment or "harboring," such as holding a grudge, ambition, or secret, or clinging to a particular belief or position.

Primarily functions as a transitive verb. In certain compounds (e.g., 抱胸), it can describe a posture of "enclosing oneself," such as having arms crossed or folded over the chest.

Contrast with 持 and 執: while those terms imply gripping or holding with the hand, 抱 requires the support of the chest and arms.

Contrast with 擁 (yōng): whereas both involve the arms, 抱 focuses on the act of taking something up or bringing it into one's space; 擁 typically implies greater pressure, such as squeezing, hugging tightly, or being pressed by a crowd.

The semantic core of "enclosure" is derived from 包.