样子
yàngzi · HSK 2
manner
样 = pattern/shape + 子 = noun suffix → the way something looks
样 means appearance or model, and 子 is a common noun-forming suffix (as in 桌子 table, 椅子 chair). Together 样子 names the form, manner, or look of something — its outward pattern.
样 — wood radical 木 + sheep 羊
样 is a phono-semantic compound. The wood radical 木 originally hinted at meaning (a wooden model or sample), while 羊 (sheep) supplies the sound. From 'wooden pattern/template' it broadened to mean 'shape, form, kind, manner'.
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.