The word "销魂" is formed by combining the character "销", which means to melt, dissolve, or dissipate, with the character "魂", which means soul or spirit. Together, they literally convey "melting the soul" or "dissipating the spirit", figuratively describing a state of being so overwhelmed by intense emotion, whether joy or sorrow, that it feels as if one's inner essence is being eroded or transported.