scold, blow on, reprove
呵 centers on forceful vocal expression: scolding, reproving, or blowing out breath sharply. The meanings share the idea of directing strong breath or words at someone or something.
呵 combines 口 (mouth) with 可, which likely contributes the sound and may suggest the idea of vocal expression. The exact historical development is uncertain.
The mouth 口 on the left and 可 on the right suggest a mouth that can scold or blow. Picture a mouth open wide, forcefully blowing out words or air.
For カ, imagine a car horn blowing sharply: car -> カ, and the sound is like a scolding blast from the mouth.
caustic words; defiant words
blame; accusation; torture; maltreatment; pangs (of conscience)
finishing in one go; completing in one sitting; (doing something) in a single breath
laughing a ringing laugh; having a hearty laugh; roaring with laughter
(laughing) loudly
to speak sharply (e.g. during a heated discussion or argument)
pangs of conscience