约
yuē · HSK 3
to weigh in a balance or on a scale; to make an appointment
📅 约 = 纟(silk) + 勺(ladle); a silk cord measures/binds an agreement
约 means about, approximately, or to make an appointment. The 纟radical (silk thread) plus 勺(ladle, also lends the yuē-ish sound) gives the idea of a measured, bound pact — hence approximate amount or arranged meeting.
约 — silk radical 糹/纟 + ladle 勺
约 combines the silk radical 糹 with 勺 (ladle), which provides the sound. Originally it referred to binding or tying with silk cords, from which came the meanings 'to bind by agreement,' hence 'pact, appointment,' and later 'approximately' (a loose, tied-up estimate).