奔放 (bēn fàng) is an adjective meaning 'unrestrained' or 'uninhibited', describing behavior, expression, or style that is bold, spontaneous, and free from social or emotional constraints. The character 奔 (bēn) means 'to run' or 'to rush', suggesting energy and movement; 放 (fàng) means 'to release' or 'to let go'. Together, they evoke the image of emotions or creativity bursting forth freely—like a river breaking its banks. It often describes artistic expression, personality traits, or passionate actions.

This word carries a positive connotation in Chinese, implying vitality, authenticity, and confidence—not recklessness. It’s commonly used to praise performances (music, dance, painting), personal demeanor ('a奔放 personality'), or natural phenomena ('奔放的山风'). While it can describe people, it’s more frequently applied to abstract qualities or expressive acts than to literal physical motion.