组
zǔ · HSK 2
group
组 = 纟(silk thread) + 且 (zǔ phonetic); threads bundled into a group
组 means group or set, and serves as a measure word for sets of things. The 纟radical points to threads tied together, while 且 gives the zǔ sound. Think bundling strands into one unit.
组 — silk radical 糹 + 且 (zǔ phonetic)
组 is a semantic-phonetic compound. The silk radical 糹 signals the original meaning of weaving or braiding cords of silk threads together, while 且 supplies the sound zǔ. From 'braided cord' the meaning extended to 'group' or 'to organize,' since braiding bundles strands into one unit.