覆

Physical: To cover (laying a lid, cloth, or surface over an object); to overturn or capsize (e.g., a boat or cart).

Abstract/Political: The total upheaval or overthrow of a dynasty, regime, or state.

Primarily functions as a transitive verb; can also describe a resulting state.

There is significant porosity between 覆 and 復 (return/again/restore). In many periods and manuscripts, 覆 serves as a variant for 復, particularly regarding returning to a previous state, repeating an action, or replying in discourse. The use of 覆 may be intentional when the "return" is characterized by reversal, upheaval, or violent shift.

Traditional variants: 覆 and 𡿖 (U+8986).

Simplified form: 复 (which merges the distinct ancient glyphs 覆 and 復).

In nautical or vehicular contexts, the sense is likely "capsize" or "overturn." In textile or architectural contexts, it is likely "cover," "veil," or "spread over."