酒杯 (jiǔ bēi) literally combines 酒 (jiǔ), meaning 'alcoholic beverage' or 'wine', and 杯 (bēi), meaning 'cup' or 'glass'. Together, it refers specifically to a small, stemmed or stemless glass designed for drinking wine or other alcoholic drinks. Unlike generic terms like 杯子 (bēi zi, 'cup' or 'glass'), 酒杯 implies formality, purpose, and often aesthetic value — it’s used in dining, toasting, ceremonies, and social gatherings where wine is served.

This word is neutral in register and widely understood across Mandarin-speaking regions. It’s commonly found in contexts involving hospitality, celebration, or refined drinking culture — such as at banquets, wine tastings, or family dinners. While it can occasionally refer to glasses for other spirits (e.g., whiskey), its core association remains with wine. Note that it does not include disposable plastic cups or large mugs; those would be described differently (e.g., 一次性杯子 yīcìxìng bēi zi).