‘烙印’ literally means ‘brand mark’—a mark made by pressing a hot iron onto something, originally used to identify livestock. The character 烙 (lào) means ‘to brand with heat’, and 印 (yìn) means ‘stamp’ or ‘imprint’. Together, they form a noun referring to a physical brand on animals or, more commonly in modern usage, a deep, lasting impression—emotional, psychological, or cultural—that is difficult or impossible to erase.

This word carries strong metaphorical weight in Chinese. While it retains its literal meaning in agricultural or veterinary contexts (e.g., branding cattle), it appears frequently in literature, speeches, and everyday expression to describe enduring influences—such as childhood trauma, historical events, or formative experiences. It implies permanence and emotional resonance, often with a slightly solemn or poetic tone.