'除名' literally means 'to remove a name' — the character 除 (chú) means 'to remove, eliminate, or expel', and 名 (míng) means 'name' or 'list of names'. Together, they form a formal verb meaning to officially strike someone’s name from a roster, membership list, or official register. It implies a formal, often disciplinary or administrative action — not merely forgetting or omitting someone, but an intentional, documented removal.

This term is commonly used in organizational, institutional, or bureaucratic contexts: political parties, schools, professional associations, or sports teams may '除名' a member for violating rules, failing to meet requirements, or withdrawing participation. It carries a strong connotation of termination of formal affiliation and is more serious than simple resignation or withdrawal — it suggests the person is no longer recognized as belonging to that group.