The word **潦倒** (*liáodǎo*) is a classical Chinese compound formed through semantic combination, where both characters contribute related meanings to create an abstract concept. **潦** originally depicted rainwater or floodwater, evoking images of chaos, excess, and being overwhelmed, while **倒** means "to fall" or "to collapse." Together, they create a vivid metaphorical image: a person or situation is as disordered and submerged as if caught in chaotic floodwaters, having figuratively "fallen." Over time, this evolved into its modern meaning of being frustrated, destitute, or in a state of落魄 (down and out), describing a life or spirit that is defeated and in disarray.