‘明星’ literally means ‘bright star’ — combining 明 (míng), meaning ‘bright’ or ‘clear’, and 星 (xīng), meaning ‘star’. Figuratively, it refers to a famous person who stands out in public life, especially in entertainment — such as actors, singers, or influencers. While ‘movie star’ is a common translation, the term is broader than just film: it includes pop idols, TV hosts, and social media personalities who enjoy widespread recognition and fan followings.

In everyday Chinese, ‘明星’ carries a neutral-to-positive connotation and is used in both formal reporting and casual conversation. It’s distinct from more specific terms like 演员 (yǎnyuán, ‘actor’) or 歌手 (gēshǒu, ‘singer’), as it emphasizes fame and public visibility rather than profession alone. You’ll often see it in phrases like 明星效应 (míngxīng xiàoyìng, ‘celebrity effect’) or 明星代言 (míngxīng dàiyán, ‘celebrity endorsement’).