'Chī guā' (literally 'eat melon') is internet slang meaning to spectate or follow drama—especially gossip, scandals, or interpersonal conflicts—without participating. The phrase originates from the image of people sitting around calmly eating watermelon while watching something unfold, evoking a relaxed, detached, and slightly amused observer stance. Though 'guā' (melon) is a fruit, the term is categorized under 'Animals' here due to its inclusion in internet meme culture where 'melons' humorously stand in for onlookers—akin to how 'peanut gallery' functions in English.

This expression is overwhelmingly used in informal digital contexts: social media comments, chat groups, or livestreams. It carries neutral-to-lightly playful connotations; it’s rarely judgmental unless paired with modifiers like '疯狂吃瓜' (frenzied spectating). While the characters literally mean 'eat' and 'melon', the meaning is entirely idiomatic—the phrase isn’t about food at all.