The word **携手 (xiéshǒu)** is formed through the combination of two characters: **携 (xié)**, meaning "to lead by hand," "to carry," or "to bring along," and **手 (shǒu)**, meaning "hand." Literally, it paints the image of "joining hands" or "hand in hand." Figuratively, this compound extends the concrete action into an abstract metaphor for cooperation, collaboration, and working together in unison toward a common goal, emphasizing partnership and mutual support.