Chen Collection, Middle Volume
Radical: Tree (mù)
Entry: Di
Kangxi strokes: 7
Page 511, Entry 21
Pronounced di (falling tone)
According to the Analytical Dictionary of Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it describes the appearance of a tree.
In the Book of Odes (Shijing), Tang Feng section, it refers to a single, isolated pear tree.
The Mao Commentary states that di means standing alone or growing solitary.
The Collection of Rhymes (Jiyun) indicates it refers to a tree growing by itself.
The Jade Chapter (Yupian) also indicates it refers to a tree that is flourishing.
Also pronounced tuo (falling tone). It refers to the small rudder or steering oar at the stern of a boat.
In the Huainan Masters (Huainanzi), Shuolin chapter, it is noted: what the heart desires, even if it means destroying a boat, one will make into a rudder; what the heart wants, even if it means destroying a bell, one will make into a bell clapper.
This character is composed of Tree and Big. The common variant written with the Dog radical on the side is incorrect. The character is also written as (dai).