Wei Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Silk (mì) Kangxi Strokes: 14 Page 929, Entry 05 Pronounced zi. In the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is defined as black silk. In the Wide Dictionary (Guangya), it states that zi is called zao (black). In the Definitions of Names (Shiming), it states that zi is like the sediment of muddy water, indicating a black color. In the Book of Odes (Shijing), the Zheng Airs section: "How fitting the black robes." The Commentary notes: Zi means black color. In the Rites of Zhou (Zhouli), Winter Official, Artificer's Record, Zhong lineage section: "Dyed seven times, it becomes zi." The Commentary states: It is dyed red-black, then dyed again in black to achieve the zi color. Pronounced zhi. The meaning is the same. Pronounced zi. In the Former Han (Qianhan), Biography of Ban Gu: "Though soaked in a dark vat, it does not become black." The Commentary by Yan Shigu states: According to the rhyming convention, it is pronounced in the rising tone. Pronounced zi. The meaning is the same.