‘维权’ literally means ‘to maintain rights’ — ‘维’ (wéi) means ‘to maintain, uphold, or defend,’ and ‘权’ (quán) means ‘rights’ or ‘authority.’ Together, the term refers to the act of actively asserting, protecting, or seeking redress for one’s legitimate rights, especially in contexts where those rights have been violated or ignored. It is commonly used in discussions about consumer rights, labor rights, legal protections, and public advocacy.

The word functions primarily as a verb but can also appear as a noun in phrases like ‘维权行动’ (rights defense action) or ‘维权人士’ (rights defender). While neutral in formal usage, it often carries connotations of civic engagement and sometimes implies tension with institutions or authorities. It appears frequently in news reports, legal education materials, and social media discussions concerning fairness, accountability, and justice.