Wei Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Bamboo (zhú) Dan Kangxi Strokes: 18 Page 899, Entry 01 Pronounced dan. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is a type of container. The Han Dynasty Legal Code states that a dan is a small basket. The Sea of Characters (Pianhai) defines it as a bamboo or reed utensil. Zheng Kangcheng states: Among containers for food, the round ones are called dan, and the square ones are called si. In the Ceremonial Rites (Yili), it is written: Comb placed inside the dan. In the Analects (Lunyu), it is written: A single basket (dan) of food. The commentary states: Dan is a si container. The Expanded Rhymes (Guangyun) states: Dan-si is a small hamper. Also the name of a bamboo. In the Account of Plants and Trees (Caomu Zhuang) by Ji Han: Dan bamboo, its leaves are sparse and large, and the distance between each node is five or six feet. Also a gourd dipper is called a dan. In the Dialect (Fangyan) by Yang Xiong: A ladle is called a dan in the regions between Chen, Chu, Song, and Wei, or sometimes called a dipper. See the Account of Plants and Trees of the Southern Regions (Nanfang Caomu Zhuang) by Ji Han of the Jin Dynasty.