pure, unmixed, essence

粹 is composed of 米 (rice) and 卒 (end, soldier). 卒 signifies the crossing and binding point of a garment’s front panels, implying termination or finality. Thus, 粹 refers to the final rice grains remaining after sifting. After sifting, only the refined essence is left, so 粹 means pure and unadulterated.