传说 (chuán shuō) is a noun meaning 'legend' or 'rumor'—a traditional story passed down orally over generations, often containing supernatural elements or moral lessons. The character 传 (chuán) means 'to transmit' or 'to pass on', while 说 (shuō) means 'to speak' or 'a statement'; together, they literally mean 'something spoken and transmitted', highlighting the oral, communal nature of such stories.

This word is commonly used for culturally embedded tales—like the legend of the White Snake or the Monkey King—and appears in literature, folklore studies, and everyday conversation when referring to widely believed but unverified accounts. While it can sometimes imply doubt (as in 'just a rumor'), its tone is usually neutral or even respectful when referencing cultural heritage. It’s distinct from hearsay (小道消息) or gossip (闲话), carrying more historical weight and narrative richness.