KanjiJLPT N3
Cup

counter for cupfuls, wine glass, glass, toast

Mnemonic

A tree is chopped down and its trunk hollowed into a beautiful cup. Critics are completely negative — "Wooden cups are primitive!" But when you pour sake into this cup, the wood infuses a warm, smoky flavor everyone secretly craves. They line up, begging for a sip.
Additional thoughts
Picture the grain of the tree visible on the cup's surface. The negative critics eating their words adds emotional punch — rejection turned to desire makes the image stick.
Quick recall
A tree trunk carved into a cup gets negative reviews until everyone tastes its smoky sake.

Details

The keyword for 杯 is cup. This kanji refers to a drinking vessel, particularly a small cup used for beverages such as sake or wine. It also serves as a counter for cupfuls or glassfuls of liquid. In broader usage, it can denote a trophy or championship cup, as in a competition prize.
On'yomi
はい
Kun'yomi
さかずき