素直
すなお · sunao · JLPT N2 · na-adj
obedient
🐑 素 plain + 直 straight = a plain, straight-going person who does as told
素 means plain or undyed and 直 means straight. Someone who is plain and straight-going accepts guidance without fuss, so the word covers obedient, meek, and docile.
素 — silk 糸 + sheng 𠂹 (hanging threads)
Originally depicted raw, undyed silk hanging to dry, with the silk radical 糸 below and strands above. From this came the meaning 'plain, unadorned, white,' then extended to 'basic element' or 'plain/simple' in general. The 'vegetarian' sense developed later from the idea of plain, unembellished food.
直 — 十 ten + 目 eye + 乚 hidden line
Originally depicted an eye (目) looking straight along a vertical line, suggesting a direct, unswerving gaze. The form combines 目 'eye' with strokes indicating straightness. From this came the meanings 'straight,' 'upright,' and by extension 'honest' or 'direct.'