‘归宁’ (guī níng) is a classical Chinese term referring to the traditional practice where a married woman visits her parents’ home after marriage. Literally, ‘归’ means ‘to return’, and ‘宁’ means ‘peace’ or ‘to settle’, together suggesting ‘returning to bring peace to one’s natal family’—a gesture affirming filial duty and familial harmony. Though rooted in ancient Confucian customs, the term is still used today in formal writing, literature, wedding invitations, or ceremonial contexts to convey respect and tradition.

In modern spoken Chinese, people usually say ‘回娘家’ (huí niángjiā, ‘return to mother’s home’) instead; ‘归宁’ carries a poetic, respectful, and slightly archaic tone. It often appears in historical dramas, classical poetry, or when describing culturally significant family rituals—especially during festivals like Spring Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, when married daughters traditionally make such visits.