Hai Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Tooth (chǐ) 齦 Kangxi Strokes: 21 Page 1534, Entry 02 Pronounced kěn. In the Explanation of Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is defined as to gnaw. In the Great Mystery (Taixuanjing) by Yang Xiong: To polish teeth by gnawing the gums. In the writings of Han Yu regarding Prince Cheng of Cao: To gnaw upon the treacherous and the wicked. Also pronounced qǐn. Defined in the Broad Rhymes (Guangyun) as the sound of gnawing. Also pronounced yín. Defined in the Dictionary of Rhymes (Yunhui) as the gums.