‘奠仪’ (diàn yí) literally combines 奠 (diàn), meaning ‘to offer sacrifices or pay solemn tribute’, and 仪 (yí), meaning ‘ceremony’ or ‘ritual’. Together, it refers specifically to money given as a token of respect and condolence at funerals or memorial services in Chinese culture. It is not a gift in the ordinary sense but a culturally significant gesture expressing sympathy, honoring the deceased, and supporting the bereaved family.

This practice reflects deep-rooted Confucian values of filial piety, respect for ancestors, and communal responsibility in times of loss. The amount given is usually an even number (avoiding unlucky odd numbers like 1, 3, or 7), often ending in 00 or 60/80, and is placed in a plain white or black envelope—never red, which symbolizes celebration. While modern urban settings may see simplified customs, ‘奠仪’ remains widely observed across mainland China, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities.