The word 支付 is formed by combining two individual characters, each contributing a key aspect of the overall concept. The first character, 支 (zhī), carries the core idea of dispensing or giving out (as from a fund or resource). The second character, 付 (fù), means to hand over or to deliver to someone. When placed together, their meanings sequentially merge: one first dispenses (支) value and then hands it over (付) to complete a transaction. Thus, the compound visually and conceptually depicts the complete, two-part action of making a payment.