set, lay a foundation, install, equip, squat down, sit down
据 centers on placing something firmly in position: setting, installing, or laying a foundation. The squatting and sitting senses extend from the idea of settling oneself down securely.
据 combines 扌 (hand) with 居, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of settling or placing. The character suggests using the hand to set something firmly in place.
The hand 扌 beside 居 (which can mean reside or settle) suggests using your hand to set something down firmly, like installing equipment or laying a foundation. When you squat or sit, you are settling your body into place.
For キョ, imagine you are setting up a new home in Kyoto (京都, きょうと). The first syllable of Kyoto, キョ, helps you remember the reading while you install furniture with your hands.
to place (in position); to fix; to set (e.g. table); to lay (foundation)
deferment (e.g. of savings); leaving (a thing) as it stands
to hold still; to hold in place; to hold steady; to stay (in one spot)
to stare fixedly at; to fix one's gaze on
installation; setting; fitting; mounting
meal set before one
to leave as it is; to defer
to ensconce oneself (e.g. in a chair); to settle oneself down; to plant oneself
taking care of everything; no need to do anything
to give (a guest) the seat of honor (honour)
to cut down an enemy
to sit down
to have steady nerves; to gain courage; to become brave; to become confident
to muster one's courage; to resolve oneself; to ready oneself for what is to come
to (physically) force someone to sit down
to install (a person) in (someone's) place
to strike (someone) down; to knock down; to thrash; to beat severely
diligence; assiduity; pinching; hard toil
to install; to equip; to mount; to fix (in place); to set up
ornament