English Dictionary

hongbao

/ˈhɒŋbaʊ/

noun

In some Chinese communities, a decorated paper envelope, traditionally red, containing a gift of money (lucky money) presented during special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and the Chinese New Year; also, the gift of money presented in such an envelope.

During Chinese New Year, it is common to give hongbao to children as a symbol of good luck and blessings.

意味（1）

In some Chinese communities, a decorated paper envelope, traditionally red, containing a gift of money (lucky money) presented during special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and the Chinese New Year; also, the gift of money presented in such an envelope.

In the old days gifts of money were given to children by the older generation and were placed in red envelopes called hong bao. This practice has been discouraged by the Communists because it perpetuates feudal-capitalist consciousness, the worship of wealth and money.