Wei Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Silk (mì) Page 933, Entry 16 Pronounced zhou According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to a fine grade of cloth made of kudzu fiber. Another definition is to crinkle or gather. According to the Jade Record (Yupian), it is a type of cloth, specifically one that is fine. It is also written in a variant form. As cited in the Book of Odes (Shijing), in the Yong Winds section: Wearing that crinkled fine cloth. The commentary states that the finest of fine cloth is called zhou. The sub-commentary explains that fine cloth is made from kudzu; the type that is exceptionally fine and smooth is called zhou, implying it is thin and puckered. Also referred to as qianzou. As cited in the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), Biography of Sima Xiangru: Pleated, gathered, and crinkled. The commentary notes that qianzou refers to fabric being shrunken or puckered. According to the Classified Chapters (Leipian), it refers to gathered patterns or folds. Also pronounced zou according to the Collected Rhymes (Jiyun). Also pronounced zu according to the Collected Rhymes (Jiyun). The meaning is the same. Also pronounced chao according to the Expanded Rhymes (Guangyun). It refers to inferior silk fabric.