The word "南瓜" (nánguā), meaning "pumpkin", is formed conceptually by combining the character for "south" (南) with the character for "melon" or "gourd" (瓜). This naming originates from the vegetable's historical path of introduction into China; it is believed to have been brought from Southeast Asia or other southern regions (like the Americas via southern sea routes) into China. Thus, it was identified as the "southern melon" to distinguish it from native gourds and melons, essentially naming it for its perceived geographical origin.