The word 佩服 is formed through the conceptual blending of its two component characters. 佩 originally depicted a person wearing a jade ornament tied to their belt, conveying the core idea of carrying something close to the body and, by extension, holding something in high personal regard. 服 originally illustrated subduing a person, evolving to mean submission or obedience. Combined, they create a new idea where the "submission" (服) is not forced but is a voluntary, inward "carrying" or embracing (佩) of another person's qualities, resulting in the meaning of heartfelt admiration and respect.