The Chinese word "叉子" (chāzi), meaning "fork", is formed through a common Mandarin compound word structure: it combines the meaningful character "叉" (chā), which pictographically represents a forked or crossing shape and carries the core meaning of "fork" or "to cross", with the noun-forming suffix "子" (zi). This suffix "子" is often attached to single-character nouns to create a disyllabic word, a pattern that enhances rhythmic flow in speech and frequently indicates a concrete, everyday object or tool. Thus, "叉子" follows the template of [Root Meaning + Nominal Suffix] to specify the familiar utensil.