‘补给’ (bǔ gěi) is a verb meaning ‘to supply’ or ‘to replenish’, especially in contexts involving logistics, resources, or essential materials. The character 补 (bǔ) means ‘to supplement’ or ‘to make up for a shortage’, while 给 (gěi) means ‘to give’. Together, they convey the idea of actively providing what is lacking—often food, fuel, ammunition, medical supplies, or other critical items. It implies an organized, often institutional effort rather than casual giving.

This word is commonly used in military, disaster relief, expeditionary, and infrastructure contexts—for example, when troops receive fresh provisions, or when remote outposts get new equipment. It’s less common in everyday personal exchanges (e.g., you wouldn’t say ‘补给朋友一杯水’); instead, use simpler verbs like ‘给’ or ‘提供’. The noun form ‘补给’ (as in ‘物资补给’) also exists, referring to the supplies themselves.