‘童工’ (tóng gōng) literally combines 童 (tóng), meaning ‘child’ or ‘youth’, and 工 (gōng), meaning ‘worker’ or ‘laborer’. Together, it specifically refers to a child who performs paid or unpaid labor, typically under the legal working age. This term carries strong negative connotations in modern Chinese society and law, as it implies exploitation, violation of children’s rights, and interference with education and healthy development.

The word is commonly used in formal contexts—such as news reports, policy documents, and human rights discussions—to highlight social problems or legal violations. It is not used for children helping with light household chores or school-related activities; rather, it denotes labor that is hazardous, excessive, or legally prohibited for minors. Awareness of this term reflects China’s strict regulations against underage employment, especially in manufacturing, agriculture, or informal sectors.