‘包庇’ is a formal, often legal or moral term meaning to deliberately shield someone who has done something wrong—especially a crime or serious misconduct—from being discovered, punished, or held accountable. The first character 包 (bāo) means 'to wrap' or 'to include', suggesting concealment or encompassing; the second character 庇 (bì) means 'to shelter' or 'to protect', implying active defense. Together, they convey the idea of hiding wrongdoing under a protective cover, not out of compassion but to obstruct justice or truth.

This verb is commonly used in official, journalistic, or ethical discussions—such as corruption investigations, medical ethics violations, or academic misconduct. It carries strong negative connotations and implies complicity. Unlike neutral words like ‘help’ or ‘support’, 包庇 always involves intentionality and moral failure. It is rarely used in casual speech and almost never with positive intent—it is not appropriate for describing ordinary kindness or family loyalty unless that loyalty crosses into unethical concealment.