触电 literally means 'to touch electricity' — the character 触 (chù) means 'to touch, to come into contact with', and 电 (diàn) means 'electricity' or 'electric current'. Its primary meaning is 'to get an electric shock', describing the dangerous physical experience of accidental contact with live electrical current, often causing injury or even death. This usage is common in safety warnings, medical reports, and news headlines.

In modern informal contexts, 触电 also carries a vivid figurative meaning: 'to be suddenly inspired' (e.g., by an idea) or 'to fall head over heels in love' — likening the jolt of emotion or insight to the sharp, involuntary physical sensation of an electric shock. This metaphorical use appears frequently in literature, social media, and casual speech, especially when describing instant attraction or creative breakthroughs.