The Chinese word 斗篷 (dǒupeng), meaning "cloak" or "cape", is a compound noun formed through semantic combination. The first character 斗 (dǒu) originally means a "dipper" or "ladle", and here metaphorically suggests the garment's shape, broad at the shoulders and tapering down, resembling an inverted dipper when worn. The second character 篷 (péng) means "covering" or "awning" (often made of matting or fabric), indicating its function as a protective outer layer. Together, they create a vivid image of a shaped fabric covering, effectively naming a specific type of loose, sleeveless outer garment.