Xu Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Metal (jīn) Character: mei Kangxi strokes: 15 Page 1306, Entry 21 Pronounced mei. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to a large lock. It is formed from the radical for metal, with mei serving as the phonetic component. It describes a single ring connecting two others. According to the Expanded Rhymes (Zengyun), it refers to a mother-and-child ring. In the Book of Odes (Shijing), in the section regarding the customs of Qi, it is written: A hound wearing a double ring. The commentary notes that mei refers to a single ring passing through two others. Additionally, according to the Jade Chapters (Yupian), it is the ancient form of the character meng. Further notes are provided under the radical for grass, eight strokes.