The word "贫穷" is formed by combining the characters "贫" and "穷". "贫" is composed of "分" (to divide) and "贝" (money or wealth), literally implying divided wealth and thus scarcity. "穷" is composed of "穴" (cave) and "力" (strength), suggesting being trapped in a confined space with limited means. Together, they create a compound word where both characters reinforce the meaning of poverty through their structural components.