碰碗 (pèng wǎn) literally means 'to bump bowls' and refers to the customary act of gently tapping or clinking one’s bowl against another’s during a toast, especially in informal Chinese dining settings. Unlike formal wine toasting with glasses, 碰碗 is typically done with rice bowls or small ceramic cups—often filled with baijiu or beer—and signals camaraderie, respect, or celebration among friends, family, or colleagues.

The verb combines 碰 (to touch, bump, or collide lightly) and 碗 (bowl), emphasizing physical contact as a social gesture rather than just drinking. It’s deeply rooted in Chinese banquet culture, where the sound of clinking bowls expresses warmth and sincerity. While common at home meals, hotpot gatherings, or casual banquets, it’s rarely used in high-end restaurants or formal business dinners, where glassware and 'cheers' (gānbēi) dominate.