程度
chéngdù · HSK 3
degree
📏 程 (procedure/extent) + 度 (degree/measure) = degree/extent
程 carries the sense of a measured course or procedure; 度 means degree or to measure. Together 程度 names the extent or level something reaches — a degree on a scale.
度 — 广 (shelter) + 庶 abbreviated (phonetic)
Originally depicted a hand measuring length under a shelter, meaning 'to measure' or 'a measure/standard.' From this came extended senses like 'degree,' 'extent,' and 'to pass through' (as in passing time). The reading 'dù' means degree/measure, while 'duó' preserves the older verbal sense of measuring.