The word 单位 is formed by combining the character 单, which carries connotations of being singular, individual, or a unit, with 位, which means a place, position, or seat. Conceptually, it brings together the idea of a single, defined entity or position within a structured system. This fusion creates the abstract notion of an assigned, standalone place within an organization or measurement system, evolving to mean a designated work entity like a company or institute, or a standard quantitative measure.