'Tī jiàn zi' literally means 'to kick the shuttlecock' — a traditional Chinese folk game where players keep a weighted, feathered shuttlecock (called 'jiàn zi') airborne using only their feet and lower body. The verb 踢 (tī) means 'to kick', 毽 (jiàn) refers specifically to this type of shuttlecock (historically made with coins and feathers), and 子 (zi) is a common nominal suffix that turns the compound into a noun-like activity term. Though grammatically a verb phrase, it functions as a lexicalized action unit.

This activity is especially popular among children and elders in parks, courtyards, and schoolyards across China. It requires coordination, balance, and rhythm, and is often played solo for practice or in groups for friendly competition. Unlike Western badminton, no rackets or nets are used — just the feet, knees, and sometimes head. It’s valued not only as recreation but also as light physical exercise promoting agility and focus.