The Chinese word 冻结 (dòngjié) is a compound verb formed by combining two characters, each contributing to the overall meaning: 冻 (dòng) means "to freeze" (as in turning to ice due to cold), and 结 (jié) means "to congeal", "solidify", or "bind together". When combined, they create a metaphorical extension, where the concept of a liquid solidifying is applied to abstract entities. Thus, 冻结 literally and conceptually means "to freeze solid", and it is used in both physical contexts (like water freezing) and, more commonly today, in figurative contexts such as freezing financial assets, accounts, or activities, implying they are rendered immobile and inactive.