The word 头衔 (tóuxián, meaning "title" or "rank") is formed through a vivid conceptual metaphor. It literally combines "头" (head), the physical seat of identity and command, with "衔" (which historically means a bit in a horse's mouth, controlling it, and by extension means "to hold in the mouth" or "to bear"). Together, they create the image of a title or official position as something one "holds in the head" or "bears as part of one's identity", akin to a crown or official hat, representing the social role and authority attached to a person.