‘走狗’ literally means ‘running dog’—a dog that runs at its master’s command. Figuratively, it refers to a person who blindly obeys and serves a powerful or corrupt individual or group, often for personal gain. The term carries strong negative connotations, implying servility, loss of integrity, and moral compromise. It is not a neutral descriptor but a harsh, critical label used in political, social, or moral discourse.

The word combines 走 (zǒu, ‘to walk/run’) and 狗 (gǒu, ‘dog’), evoking the image of a subservient animal doing its master’s bidding without question. Historically, it appeared in classical texts and was later adopted widely in modern Chinese political rhetoric—especially during the 20th century—to condemn collaborators or opportunists. Today, it remains common in formal writing, news commentary, and heated debates, but is rarely used in polite or casual conversation due to its insulting force.