‘琴谱’ (qín pǔ) is a compound noun meaning 'guqin tablature'—a unique, centuries-old system of musical notation used exclusively for the guqin, a seven-stringed Chinese zither. Unlike Western staff notation, guqin tablature records finger positions, plucking techniques, and string numbers using stylized Chinese characters and symbols; it does not indicate rhythm or pitch directly, requiring oral transmission and interpretation from a master.

The first character, 琴 (qín), means 'stringed instrument', specifically the guqin in classical contexts; 谱 (pǔ) means 'musical score' or 'chart'. Together, they denote the written form that preserves guqin repertoire, such as ancient pieces like 'Flowing Water' (流水). These tablatures are often found in classical anthologies, calligraphic manuscripts, or modern printed editions used by students and performers studying traditional Chinese music.