例子
lìzi · HSK 2
example
📋 例 = case/instance + 子 = noun suffix; literally 'an instance'
例 means case, instance, or precedent (think 例外 = exception, 例如 = for example). 子 is a common noun-forming suffix with no meaning of its own here. Together 例子 = a concrete case used to illustrate something.
子 — pictograph of a baby/child with arms out
子 began as a pictograph of a swaddled infant with a large head and outstretched arms, originally meaning 'baby' or 'child.' From there it broadened to 'son,' 'offspring,' and a respectful suffix for masters like 孔子 (Confucius). It also became one of the twelve earthly branches.