The word 角色 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a layer of meaning to create a cohesive concept. The first character, 角, originally picturing an animal's horn, evolved to mean a "corner" or an "angle", and by historical association in Chinese theater, came to signify an actor's "part" or "role". The second character, 色, primarily meaning "color" or "expression", adds the dimension of outward appearance, demeanor, or the distinguishing traits of that part. Thus, when merged, they conceptually represent the "expressed part" or the "persona with distinguishing features", perfectly encapsulating the idea of a character's role in a story or performance.