动员 (dòng yuán) is a verb meaning 'to mobilize' — to organize and encourage people to take collective action toward a common goal. The first character 动 (dòng) means 'to move' or 'to act', while 员 (yuán) originally meant 'member' or 'person', so together they literally suggest 'moving members into action'. It implies active, purposeful engagement, often in contexts like community efforts, workplace initiatives, or public campaigns.

This word carries a formal, organized tone and is commonly used in official announcements, school activities, volunteer drives, or social movements. It's rarely used for spontaneous or individual actions — instead, it emphasizes coordinated effort by a group. While historically associated with political or military contexts, modern usage extends to environmental campaigns, charity events, or even classroom projects where teachers 'mobilize' students to participate.