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芷 is a phono-semantic compound: the grass radical 艹 (signifying a plant) sits above the phonetic 止 (zhǐ). Although 止 ordinarily means 'stop', here it functions solely as a sound marker. The character refers to a fragrant herb, often angelica, used in traditional medicine and perfumery. Associated with pleasant scent and elegance, it frequently appears in classical poetry and is a popular given name, symbolizing beauty, purity, and refined botanical qualities.
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