The word "宝贝" is formed through a conceptual combination where two independent characters, each carrying its own rich meaning, are paired to create a new, intensified idea. The first character, "宝" (bǎo), means "treasure" or "something precious". The second, "贝" (bèi), originally referred to cowrie shells, which were ancient currency and thus also symbolized value and wealth. By joining them, the compound visually and semantically doubles down on the notion of preciousness, evolving from a literal term for valuables like jewels to a deeply affectionate term for a cherished person, like a child or sweetheart.