拜师 (bàishī) literally means 'to pay respect to a teacher' — combining 拜 (bài), meaning 'to bow or worship', and 师 (shī), meaning 'teacher' or 'master'. It refers specifically to the formal, often ceremonial act of becoming a disciple under a skilled mentor, especially in traditional arts, martial arts, medicine, or craftsmanship. Unlike casual learning, 拜师 implies a deep, long-term master-apprentice relationship with mutual obligations: the student shows humility and dedication, while the master commits to transmitting knowledge and values.

This ritual may involve offering tea, bowing three times, presenting gifts, or signing a formal agreement. It is deeply rooted in Confucian ideals of respect for teachers and continuity of tradition. While less common in modern academic settings, 拜师 remains vital in fields like Peking opera, calligraphy, tai chi, and traditional Chinese medicine — where tacit knowledge and personal guidance are essential.