The word "兴趣" (interest) is formed through a conceptually complementary compound. The first character, "兴" (xìng), originally depicted a communal lifting, evoking a sense of rising excitement, enthusiasm, or a flourishing mood. The second character, "趣" (qù), conveys the idea of heading toward a direction or a goal, implying inclination or appeal. Together, they combine the internal feeling of aroused excitement ("兴") with the external object or activity that draws one's attention and direction ("趣"), thus fully encapsulating the notion of an active, engaged interest where one's enthusiasm is directed toward something appealing.