The word 干涉 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core concept to create a new, unified meaning. 干, in its ancient form, depicted a shield, conveying a sense of offense, intervention, or trespassing upon a boundary. 涉 depicts water (氵) on both sides of steps (步), illustrating the act of wading across a river, entering into a medium or involving oneself in a situation. Together, they create the vivid image of "wading in to intervene", perfectly encapsulating the idea of meddling or interfering in the affairs of others.