‘猴戏’ literally combines 猴 (hóu), meaning 'monkey', and 戏 (xì), meaning 'play' or 'performance'. Together, it refers to a traditional Chinese street performance in which trained monkeys—often wearing small costumes—perform tricks like riding miniature bicycles, walking on tightropes, or mimicking human actions. These shows were historically common in rural markets and temple fairs, especially during festivals, and reflect a blend of folk entertainment and animal training traditions.

While the term is neutral in description, modern usage sometimes carries subtle connotations of simplicity or rustic charm—and occasionally mild disapproval, as contemporary animal welfare standards question the ethics of such performances. Today, authentic monkey shows are rare in urban areas but still appear occasionally in cultural heritage demonstrations or nostalgic reenactments. The word is not used for circus acts involving other animals, nor for fictional depictions of monkeys in film or literature—it specifically denotes live, traditional, street-level performances with real monkeys.