A pictograph of a cross planted into the earth. The lower stroke is longer since it signifies the ground, or the horizon, which infinitely stretches in every direction.
Do not confuse with 士 where the upper stroke is longer.
earth; soil; the earth (historically, esp. as opposed to the heavens); the ground; low-quality torinoko-gami (containing mud); (period of) refraining from construction in the direction of the god of the earth (in Onmyōdō)
local specialty or souvenir bought as a gift while travelling; present brought by a visitor; something unpleasant that one is given (e.g. an illness while on vacation); unwelcome gift