The word 伸手 (shēn shǒu) is a verb-object compound formed by combining the character 伸 (shēn), meaning "to stretch" or "to extend", with 手 (shǒu), meaning "hand". Literally, it describes the physical act of reaching out one's hand. Through common usage, this concrete action has evolved into a versatile metaphorical idiom. It most frequently means to ask for something (often help or money) from others, implying a request or demand, and can also carry a negative connotation of meddling or overreaching into affairs that are not one's concern. Thus, its meaning extends from a simple physical description to abstract social behavior.