Chen Collection, Middle Volume. Radical: Tree (mù). Kangxi stroke count: 18. Page 559, Entry 11. Tang Rhyme (Tangyun), Collection Rhymes (Jiyun), Dictionary of Rhymes (Yunhui), and Correct Rhymes (Zhengyun) state it is pronounced zhao (falling tone). According to Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen), it is a tool used to propel a boat forward. According to Explanation of Names (Shiming), rowing in the water at the side of a boat is called zhao. Zhao means to wash, indicating the action of moving through water, which allows the boat to advance. According to Dictionary of Rhymes (Yunhui), a short oar is called a ji, while a long oar is called a zhao. In the Nine Songs (Jiuge) of the Songs of Chu (Chuci), it is written: Oars made of cassia wood and sweeps made of magnolia. Also, according to Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen), some versions are written with the character zhuo. In the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), it is written as zhuo. In the History of the Former Han (Qianhan), section on the Table of Official Posts, the Upper Forest Park (Shanglin Yuan) is noted to have an official for oaring and rowing. The commentary by Shigu notes that ji is the same as the oar (ji), and zhuo is the same as the oar (zhao). Additionally, according to Classified Chapters (Leipian), it is pronounced zhuo (rising tone). It describes the appearance of tree branches growing straight upward. According to the Erya, for shao-zhao, see the note under the entry for shao. Also, according to Collection Rhymes (Jiyun), it is pronounced zhai (entering tone). According to Five Sounds Dictionary of Rhymes (Wuyin Jiyun), it is pronounced di (entering tone). The meaning remains the same. Furthermore, in the regions of the states of Chu and Song, a cutting board is called a zhao.