Mao means the fourth of the Earthly Branches, and the corresponding zodiac sign is rabbit, generally called Mao Rabbit.

Mao is the rabbit, which is the animal represented in the ancient Chinese zodiac. Rabbits are loved by people for their softness, agility and elegance, and are often given meanings such as purity, beauty and agility. In ancient documents such as "The Book of Songs", rabbits are often regarded as a symbol of auspiciousness. For example, "Daya·Juaner" mentions that there are rabbits with wings, which means there are flying rabbits, which is an auspicious sign.

Maoji Rabbit also has a special meaning in time. According to the ancient twelve-hour division, Mao hour corresponds to five to seven o'clock in the morning. This time period is exactly when the sun rises, and it is also the time when rabbits are most active. Therefore, Mao Shi is also called Rabbit Time, which means the liveliness and agility of rabbits.

In addition, Mao also means the place where wooden parts are connected. In woodware manufacturing, the convex part is called a tenon, and the concave part is called a mortise. The mortise and mortise work together to allow the various parts of the wood to be firmly connected together. Therefore, the word "卯" also extends to the meaning of fixation, connection, joint, etc.

Characteristics of the twelve zodiac signs:

1. The twelve zodiac signs are interesting and unique. For example, the rat is endowed with the qualities of wit and flexibility, symbolizing wisdom, courage and resourcefulness. In folk tradition, rats are also portrayed as having extraordinary wisdom. For example, the story of rats stealing oil shows their wit and flexibility.

Like the tiger, it is endowed with the qualities of strength and bravery, symbolizing incomparable might and fearlessness. Tiger is often used to describe bravery and might in idioms and proverbs. If a tiger is powerful, it expresses this incomparable power.

2. The twelve zodiac signs have profound cultural connotations. In Chinese culture, each zodiac sign has its own specific symbolic meaning and mascot. For example, the dragon is a symbol of authority, dignity and wealth, and represents success and luck. The dragon plays an important role in Chinese history and culture and is regarded as a national totem and a national symbol.

Like the phoenix, it is a symbol of beauty, nobility and auspiciousness, representing happiness and good luck. The phoenix is ??regarded as an auspicious bird in traditional Chinese culture and is often depicted as a female figure with gorgeous feathers.

3. The twelve zodiac signs have wide practicality. In Chinese culture, the twelve zodiac signs are not only symbols of age, but are also widely used in all aspects of life. For example, in traditional Chinese medicine, each zodiac sign corresponds to different organs, and the purpose of balancing yin and yang can be achieved through health regimen.

In the calendar, the twelve zodiac signs match the stems and branches and can be used to represent time and the sequence of events. In addition, the twelve zodiac signs are also used as place names, surnames, trademarks, etc., becoming common elements in people's daily lives.