飞扬 (fēi yáng) literally combines 飞 (to fly) and 扬 (to rise, to lift up), evoking a vivid image of something lifting upward with energy and grace—like dust in sunlight or birds taking flight. As an adjective, it describes a buoyant, spirited, or exuberant state, often applied to emotions, expressions, or mannerisms: a person’s confidence, laughter, or enthusiasm may be described as 飞扬. It carries positive connotations of vitality, freedom, and unrestrained joy.

As a verb, 飞扬 means 'to fly up' or 'to soar'—used for tangible things like banners flapping in wind, hair blowing in the breeze, or ash rising from a fire—but also metaphorically for intangible qualities gaining momentum, such as spirits lifting or hopes soaring. It frequently appears in literary, poetic, or inspirational contexts, and is common in phrases like 神采飞扬 (shén cǎi fēi yáng, 'radiating vibrant energy') or 意气飞扬 (yì qì fēi yáng, 'full of high-spirited confidence').