The word 标准 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core conceptual meaning. The first character, 标 (biāo), originally depicted the tip of a tree and carries the inherent idea of a conspicuous mark, signpost, or outward indicator that serves as a reference point. The second, 准 (zhǔn), is based on the image of a level or a ruler, representing the concepts of measurement, accuracy, and correctness. Therefore, the compound conceptually fuses the notion of a visible, designated marker (标) with the principle of precise measurement or alignment (准) to express the complete idea of an "established criterion" or "standard", an authoritative benchmark against which things are measured or judged.