拥抱 (yōng bào) is a verb meaning 'to hug' — to hold someone closely with your arms, usually as an expression of affection, comfort, support, or celebration. The character 拥 (yōng) means 'to embrace' or 'to have in one’s possession', often carrying a sense of closeness and inclusion; 抱 (bào) means 'to hold in the arms' or 'to carry', emphasizing physical contact and care. Together, they form a compound that conveys warm, intentional, and emotionally meaningful physical contact — not just casual touching, but a deliberate act of connection.

This word is commonly used between family members, close friends, romantic partners, or even in ceremonial contexts (e.g., welcoming dignitaries). It appears frequently in spoken Chinese and written narratives, especially when describing emotional moments like reunions, farewells, or expressions of sympathy. Unlike English 'hug', 拥抱 is rarely used for quick, light embraces — it suggests sincerity and duration, though intensity varies by context and relationship.