'Dōng xiāng' literally means 'eastern wing' and refers to the eastern side building or annex of a traditional Chinese siheyuan (courtyard residence). In classical courtyard architecture, buildings are arranged symmetrically around a central courtyard: the main hall faces south, the northern wing (běi xiāng) is reserved for elders, the western wing (xī xiāng) often houses younger family members or guests, and the eastern wing (dōng xiāng) typically serves as living quarters for sons or scholarly study spaces. The character 东 (dōng) means 'east', while 厢 (xiāng) denotes a side building or wing—originally referring to flanking structures in imperial or residential compounds.

This term appears frequently in classical literature, historical descriptions, and heritage site signage. Though rarely used in modern urban apartments, it remains essential for understanding traditional spatial organization, cultural symbolism (e.g., east representing growth and youth), and architectural terminology. It’s also found in idioms and place names tied to historic residences.