形态
xíngtài · HSK 5
shape
形态 = 形 (shape) + 态 (state/form) — shape-state, i.e. form
形 means shape or form (the radical 彡 marks visible lines/patterns). 态 means state or condition. Together: the shape-state of a thing — its configuration or pattern.
形 — open frame 开 + hair/pattern 彡
形 combines 开 (originally a phonetic element suggesting the sound) with 彡, a radical depicting fine lines, hair, or decorative strokes. The 彡 part conveys the idea of visible markings or surface appearance, giving 形 its core meaning of 'shape' or 'form.' Over time it broadened to cover physical figure, appearance, and abstract form.