[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Natural-World \ #Plants # 苗 miáo young plant; seedling ## Components [[艹 (cǎo)]] [[田 (tián)]] [[田 tián]] ## Meaning Today, the character "苗 (miáo)" primarily refers to the young shoots or seedlings of plants, especially in the context of agriculture and horticulture. It can also be used to specifically denote certain vegetable sprouts, such as garlic or pea shoots. Additionally, "苗" may refer to young animals, particularly those raised for breeding or cultivation. Overall, it signifies the early stages of growth and development in both plant and animal life. ## History The character "苗 (miáo)" combines the radicals for "grass" and "field," symbolizing plants growing in fields, particularly seedlings of grains like rice. In clerical script, it evolved into its modern form. Originally, "苗" denoted crops and the young shoots of plants. This includes references in ancient texts like the "Book of Songs," where it describes young shoots of plants. Later, it extended to refer to tender stems or leaves of certain vegetables, like "garlic sprouts" or "pea shoots." Additionally, it expanded to include young animals raised for breeding, such as "fish fry" or "piglets." In essence, "苗" signifies young plants or animals nurtured for growth, highlighting their delicate and tender nature. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ? ### Bronze Script ? ### Seal Script ![[苗 miáo - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[苗 miáo - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[苗 miáo - reg.svg]]