The word 程序 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core concept related to order and sequence. The first character, 程 (chéng), carries meanings of order, rule, or procedure. The second character, 序 (xù), conveys ideas of sequence, arrangement, or series. When fused, they create a compound whose combined sense is that of a "prescribed sequence" or an "orderly procedure", directly visualizing the step-by-step, logical flow inherent in a process, plan, or, in its modern usage, a computer program.