Si Collection, Upper Volume Radical: Water (shuǐ) Entry: Yan Kangxi Stroke Count: 15 Page 645, Entry 23 Pronounced yan. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to a long flowing stream. In the Sea Rhapsody (Haifu) by Mu Hua, it is written: The eastern flow divides the star region. It also means to permeate or to moisten. In the Discourses of the States (Guoyu), it is written: Water and soil permeate, and the people utilize them. It also means to extend. In the Western Capital Rhapsody (Xidu fu) by Ban Gu, it is written: The Marquis of Liu extends the achievement. It also means to broaden or to prolong. In the History of the Former Han (Qianhan shu), Biography of Empress Dowager, it is written: To broaden the sagely virtue. It also refers to water flowing hidden underground. In the Rhapsody on the Capital of Shu (Shudu fu) by Zuo Si, it is written: Flowing hidden with bubbling foam. It is also interchangeable with the character meaning to overflow (yan). In the commentary to the Great Expansion in the Book of Changes (Yijing), Wang Bi says: To broaden the numbers of heaven and earth. It also describes the winding and twisting movement of water. In the River Rhapsody (Jiangfu) by Guo Pu, it is written: Great waves wind and twist like gathering clouds. Also pronounced yin. The name of a river. Also written with the same pronunciation as the previous entry. Also pronounced yan (falling tone). Refers to a shallow current.