50+ Chinese Nicknames For Any Relationships & Meanings​​

Remembering my early childhood, growing up in the heartland of China, I am often brought back to the narrow, bustling streets of my old neighborhood, filled with the energetic rhythms of daily life.

Alongside these rhythms echoed a unique linguistic symphony, where many notes struck were Chinese nicknames. The Chinese term of endearment, the affectionate calling of someone's name, held more than just a literal meaning, making it an important aspect in building connections and relationships, whether with a romantic relationship for a Chinese girl or boyfriend or platonic relationship.  

This simple act metamorphoses into a rich tapestry of affectionate phrases, humor, and cultural identifiers in China. These names, or nicknames, are a significant part of the Chinese language's richness. 

This article will explore some of the most popular Chinese nicknames and understand their ubiquity and relevance in Chinese culture's grand scheme, akin to the many dialects forming the Chinese version of a linguistic symphony.

Chinese nicknames for boyfriend

In Chinese culture, referring to your boyfriend by a special term of endearment can create a deeper bond and express your affection. Chinese nicknames range from romantic to playful, each carrying a unique sentiment. Interestingly, the literal meanings of these nicknames often have a deeper or different significance in a relationship context.

1. 老头子 (Lǎo tóu zi)

This term might translate as "old man," but it holds an endearing connotation in the context of nicknames. It’s a playful and loving term akin to calling your partner an “old fart” in English - meant to tease and show affection rather than be taken literally.

2. 小哥哥 (Xiǎo gē gē)

This nickname literally translates to "little brother," but don't let that throw you off. It’s another affectionate term Chinese girls use to call their boyfriends, emphasizing a sense of youthfulness and playfulness.

3. 老公 (Lǎo gōng)

The literal meaning is "husband," but it's not confined to marital relationships. Dating couples often use it, revealing deep commitment and the vision of a shared future.

4. 熊熊 (Xióng xióng)

This nickname translates to "bear" and is often used as a playful nickname for someone cuddly or strong, much like a bear.

Chinese nicknames for girlfriend

You'll find incredibly sweet, affectionate, or humorous terms when it comes to Chinese nicknames for girlfriends. Many Chinese nicknames for a girlfriend highlight the most cherished traits, creating a unique, intimate language between the couple. It is also not uncommon for a Chinese nickname to be a variation of a traditional Chinese name.

5. 老婆 (Lǎo pó)

Directly translated as "wife," it’s frequently used by Chinese boys for their girlfriends. The boys often express affection and deep connection with their significant other using this term.

6. 娘子 (Niáng zi)

This term has an ancient feel, translated as "lady" or "missus." It reflects a man's chivalry and respect for his girlfriend, offering a touch of charm and old-world romance.

7. 小傻瓜 (Xiǎo shǎ guā)

This one is cute and funny. It translates as "little silly melon" and is often used as a playful tease to other kids or to denote affection between younger kids or couples.

8. 甜甜 (Tián tián)

This translates to "sweetie" and is often used as a term of endearment for someone who is sweet, pleasant, or loved dearly by the speaker.

9. 小公主 (Xiǎo gōng zhǔ)

Translating to "little princess," this nickname is used as a cute way to pamper and show affection towards a precious girl, one's girlfriend, or little sister.

10. 媳妇儿 (Xí fù er)

This nickname translates to "little wife" and is often used by husbands when referring to their wives. It's a term of respect and endearment.

Chinese nicknames for friends

Friends play a vital role in Chinese culture, and the language reflects this importance through various nicknames. Chinese people often use nicknames to refer to their friends, each carrying a specific connotation. Some may signify a shared memory, while others may highlight the strength and longevity of the friendship.

11. 总裁 (Zǒng cái)

This term, which translates to "boss," is usually used among friends to address someone in charge or a group leader.

12. 老铁 (Lǎo tiě)

This term translates to "old iron." It is a term of endearment used to refer to a close friend, symbolizing the strength and durability of the friendship. The term conveys that, like iron, the friendship bond is strong, dependable, and long-lasting.

13. 挚友 (Zhì yǒu)

This term translates to "best friend" or "dearest friend." It signifies a deep bond of friendship marked by mutual trust, respect, and shared experiences. It's often used to refer to a friend who is always there for you and with whom you share a close personal connection.

14. 死党 (Sǐ dǎng)

This term translates to "die-hard friend" or "sworn friend." It reflects a sense of unwavering loyalty and commitment between friends, signifying a steadfast friendship in adversity.

15. 知己 (Zhī jǐ)

This nickname translates to "confidante" or "one who knows me." It is used to refer to a close friend who understands you deeply and with whom you can share your thoughts and feelings without reserve. The term reflects the deep emotional connection and understanding shared between close friends.

16. 兄台 (Xiōng tái)

This nickname means "brother" and refers to a close male or friend group. It signifies brotherhood and camaraderie between friends and acknowledges the bond of trust and mutual respect.

Chinese nicknames for children

In Chinese culture, giving nicknames to children often encompasses hopes and dreams for their future. Many nicknames for children in Chinese carry positive connotations and symbolic meanings. These nicknames are filled with affection and love, reflecting the parents' hopes and good wishes for their children.

17. 丫头 (Yā tóu)

This term means "little baby girl" or "little baby sister" and refers to the younger girls in the family. It's an affectionate way of addressing the kids, often used by older family members.

18. 小不点 (Xiǎo bú diǎn)

Meaning "little bit" is a term of endearment often used for the smallest members in a family, emphasizing their tiny size and the affection family members have for them.

19. 大宝 (Dà bǎo)

This nickname is usually used for the eldest child in the family, symbolizing their preciousness and importance because '宝' translates to treasure.

20. 二宝 (Èr bǎo)

Used for the second child in the family, it carries the same meaning of love and affection as '大宝.' The only difference is that '大' refers to the oldest, while '二' refers to the second.

21. 小宝 (Xiǎo bǎo)

Meaning "little treasure," this nickname is often used by parents for their youngest child, expressing their preciousness.

22. 大哥 (Dà gē)

Translating as "big, older brother," younger siblings often use it to address their elder brothers with respect and affection.

23. 大姐 (Dà jiě)

This term translates to "big sister" and is a respectful way to refer to an elder sister or a female older than the speaker.

24. 虎子 (Hǔ zi)

This term translates to "tiger" and is often used by parents to refer to their son. It represents strength, bravery, and the hope for the child to grow strong and fearless.

25. 小公主 (Xiǎo gōng zhǔ)

This nickname translates to "little princess" and is often used by parents to refer to their beloved daughter. It's a term filled with love and the wish for the girl to grow up happily.

26. 小汤圆 (Xiǎo tāng yuán)

This term translates to "little glutinous rice ball," a delicious dessert soup commonly eaten during the Mid Autumn festival—one of the most important Chinese festivals. It is a term for someone adorable, usually a small child or a loved one. It carries a sweet and warm sentiment.

27. 崽崽 (Zǎi zǎi)

This term literally means "baby," often a cute name used to refer to a child. It is a cute and loving nickname that represents the deep affection of parents for their children.

28. 小吃货 (Xiǎo chī huò)

This nickname translates to "little foodie" and refers to someone with a strong love for food. It is an affectionate nickname for people who enjoy eating.

Nicknames for parents in Chinese

Respect for elders is a cornerstone of Chinese culture, prominently upheld by the older generation and passed down to younger ones. This concept is profoundly reflected in the nicknames used for parents.

The nicknames for parents, crafted with a sense of deep respect and endearment, are a testament to this cultural norm. They serve not merely as terms of address but as sincere expressions of love, gratitude, and respect. Similarly, these traditional practices subtly teach the values of respect and familial love to younger generations.

29. 猪爸爸 (Zhū bà ba)

The term "pig dad" might sound odd initially, but it's a humorous and friendly way to refer to a laid-back, easy-going father. It's one of the ways humor plays a part in Chinese nicknames, keeping relationships lively and cheerful.

30. ATM取款机 (ATM qǔ kuǎn jī)

This nickname jokingly translates to "ATM machine" and refers to one's parents since they are the primary financial provider throughout their children's younger days.

31. 中国好爸爸 (Zhōng guó hǎo bà bà)

It means "China's good father," a term often used to applaud a father figure who excels in his parental duties, reflecting the important role of fathers in raising children.

32. 粑粑 (Bá bá)

This term is an endearing term equivalent to "daddy," often used by children when addressing their fathers. This nickname signifies the close bond between a father and his child.

33. 麻麻 (Má má)

This nickname translates to "mommy," a term of affection children call their mothers. Similar to 粑粑, it is a tone play on the actual phrase for mom: “妈妈” (mā mā) in Mandarin. This nickname is used to signify the close, tender bond between a child and their mother.

34. 最美女人 (Zuì měi nǚ rén)

It means "most beautiful woman" and is a flattering term often used to compliment a girlfriend or wife.

35. 美丽母后 (Měi lì mǔ hòu)

This beautiful term translates to "beautiful queen mother." It's an exquisite and affectionate nickname for mothers, reflecting respect and love for them.

36. 太后娘娘 (Tài hòu niáng niáng)

Translating to "the empress dowager," this is a playful nickname used to refer to one's mother, symbolizing her authoritative status within the family.

37. 饲养员 (Sì yǎng yuán)

Literally meaning "caretaker" or "keeper," it is often used humorously to refer to one's parents, highlighting their role as providers and protectors.

38. 皇额娘、皇阿玛 (Huáng é niáng, Huáng ā mǎ)

These terms mean "empress" and "emperor," respectively, and refer to one's parents, implying respect towards them.

39. 欧多桑、欧噶桑 (Ōu duō sāng, Ōu gá sāng)

These are Japanese terms of endearment for "father" and "mother," respectively.

Cute Chinese nicknames

In addition to family and friends, Chinese offers a wealth of cute Chinese nicknames that can be used in various situations. These cute Chinese nicknames often involve playfulness and affection, showcasing the unique way the language encapsulates fun and warmth in interpersonal relationships.

Be it for a loved one or a cherished pet, and these cute Chinese nicknames have the power to bring a smile to the face and create a closer bond.

40. 宝宝 (Bǎo bǎo)

Like the English term "baby," this Chinese nickname is filled with love and tenderness. It is one of the most common Chinese nicknames, and it reflects the special status of a boyfriend in his girlfriend's heart. This nickname can also be used for a girlfriend.

41. 小宝贝 (Xiǎo bǎo bèi)

This term means "little treasure." The nickname indicates the immense love and affection someone has for the person they call with this nickname. It is a cute Chinese nickname often used for children, signifying their invaluable place in their parent's hearts.

42. 乖乖 (Guāi guāi)

This nickname translates to "obedient," but the context of its usage is more affectionate than disciplinary. It's frequently used for children, indicating they are well-behaved and endearing.

43. 天使 (Tiān shǐ)

This term translates to "angel," usually for someone with a kind heart and sweet nature.

44. 糖糖 (Táng táng)

This nickname is a sweet example of Chinese nicknames, literally. 糖糖 (Táng Táng) translates to 'sugar,' and it is a nickname frequently used for girls. It has a similar affectionate sentiment to the English term 'sweetie' and is popular among younger generations.

45. 亲爱的 (Qīn'ài de)

It is a common term of endearment that literally translates to "dear." Couples in China often use it to express affection.

46. 亲亲 (Qīn qīn)

This term is a sweet nickname that translates as "kissy" and is often used between lovers. It denotes affection and a close bond.

47. 心肝 (Xīn gān)

This nickname literally means "heart and liver" and expresses deep affection for someone. It's similar to the English term "my heart."

Funny Chinese nicknames

Humor is a significant part of Chinese culture, mirrored in its language through funny nicknames. These funny Chinese nicknames often have hilarious literal meanings, showcasing the Chinese people's unique sense of humor. They can lighten up conversations and add a layer of enjoyment to social interactions.

48. 土豆 (Tǔ dòu)

This nickname is a quirky one—it literally means "potato." It is a humorous nickname, often a given pet name, to someone who loves to lounge around, just like a potato in the soil.

49. 笨蛋 (Bèn dàn)

The translation is "dumb egg." This nickname is used in an upbeat, teasing manner among friends, highlighting a funny blunder or a goofy mistake.

50. 胖子 (Pàng zi)

This term literally translates to "fatty" and is used as an affectionate, sometimes teasing, nickname for a friend or family member who is a bit overweight. It is usually used between close friends or family members playfully and affectionately, demonstrating the close-knit ties and sense of humor shared among Chinese people.

51. 笨笨 (Bèn bèn)

This nickname translates to "stupid stupid." It is an affectionate term for someone who is adorably clueless or naive. It is often used playfully among friends or loved ones.

BONUS: Vocabulary list of the 51 Chinese nicknames to use

No.	Chinese Hanzi	Pinyin	Meaning
1	老头子	Lǎo tóu zi	Old man
2	小哥哥	Xiǎo gē gē	Little brother
3	老公	Lǎo gōng	Husband
4	熊熊	Xióng xióng	Bear
5	老婆	Lǎo pó	Wife
6	娘子	Niáng zi	Lady
7	小傻瓜	Xiǎo shǎ guā	Little silly melon
8	甜甜	Tián tián	Sweetie
9	小公主	Xiǎo gōng zhǔ	Little princess
10	媳妇儿	Xí fù er	Little wife
11	总裁	Zǒng cái	Boss
12	老铁	Lǎo tiě	Old iron
13	挚友	Zhì yǒu	Dearest friend
14	死党	Sǐ dǎng	Sworn friend
15	知己	Zhī jǐ	confidante
16	兄台	Xiōng tái	Brother
17	丫头	Yā tóu	Little baby girl
18	小不点	Xiǎo bú diǎn	Little bit
19	大宝	Dà bǎo	Big treasure
20	二宝	Èr bǎo	Second treasure
21	小宝	Xiǎo bǎo	Little treasure
22	大哥	Dà gē	Big brother
23	大姐	Dà jiě	Big sister
24	虎子	Hǔ zi	Tiger baby
25	小公主	Xiǎo gōng zhǔ	Little princess
26	小汤圆	Xiǎo tāng yuán	Little glutinous rice ball
27	崽崽	Zǎi zǎi	Baby
28	小吃货	Xiǎo chī huò	Little foodie
29	猪爸爸	Zhū bà ba	Pig dad
30	ATM取款机	ATM qǔ kuǎn jī	ATM machine
31	中国好爸爸	Zhōng guó hǎo bà bà	China's good father
32	粑粑	Bá bá	Daddy
33	麻麻	Má má	Mommy
34	最美女人	Zuì měi nǚ rén	Most beautiful woman
35	美丽母后	Měi lì mǔ hòu	Beautiful queen mother
36	太后娘娘	Tài hòu niáng niáng	The empress dowager
37	饲养员	Sì yǎng yuán	Keeper
38	皇额娘、皇阿玛	Huáng é niáng, Huáng ā mǎ	Empress, emperor
39	欧多桑、欧噶桑	Ōu duō sāng, Ōu gá sāng	Father, mother
40	宝宝	Bǎo bǎo	Baby
41	小宝贝	Xiǎo bǎo bèi	Little treasure
42	乖乖	Guāi guāi	Obedient
43	天使	Tiān shǐ	Angel
44	糖糖	Táng táng	Sugar
45	亲爱 的	Qīn'ài de	Dear
46	亲亲	Qīn qīn	Kissy
47	心肝	Xīn gān	Heart and liver
48	土豆	Tǔ dòu	Potato
49	笨蛋	Bèn dàn	Dumb egg
50	胖子	Pàng zi	Fatty
51	笨笨	Bèn bèn	Stupid stupid

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Frequently asked questions

What is the origin of Chinese nicknames?

Chinese nicknames have been around since ancient China, deeply rooted in the language and culture. They often reflect societal norms, relationships, and perceptions of Chinese people.

Are nicknames common in China?

From the hustle of metropolitan Shanghai to the tranquility of rural Guangxi, if there is one thing that transcends the diverse landscapes of China, it is the prevalence of Chinese nicknames.

So, are nicknames common in China? Indeed, they are a staple in the Chinese social fabric, and my childhood there was punctuated with them.

Whether amongst close friends, within families, or between lovers, nicknames are commonly used across different relational contexts. Many Chinese nicknames express closeness and familiarity, making them a standard feature of daily conversations.

How do Chinese nicknames work?

Chinese nicknames work a bit differently than those in Western cultures. They often rely on the phonetic and semantic flexibility of the Chinese language, which opens a vast array of possibilities.

It is not uncommon to find Chinese people using playful, humorous, deeply affectionate, or profoundly philosophical nicknames. They can be derived from various sources, including physical attributes, personality traits, life events, or even something as random as a favorite food.

Is it common for Chinese people to call their friends nicknames in public?

Yes, it's quite common for Chinese people to call their friends nicknames in public. It is especially true among younger generations, as it helps create a sense of camaraderie and intimacy. However, this can depend on the nature of the relationship, the setting, and the specific cultural norms of the region.

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Wrapping it up

From my time in mainland China, one thing became clear: Chinese nicknames are a significant part of Chinese society, shaping relationships and communication. They are not just names; they embody affection, respect, and humor. The personal touch of a Chinese nickname often binds friends, lovers, and families closer together.

Living in China, I have learned that names are more than just labels; they are endearing terms that make us feel closer to each other. Chinese names, whether given at birth or chosen as a nickname, are a rich tapestry of stories, emotions, and shared memories. They play a pivotal role in people's social interactions and relationships, sometimes painting a colorful backstory to a person's character or history.

Whether between close friends, couples, or family members, nicknames add a layer of affection, intimacy, and personal touch to their bonds. Being called by a special Chinese nickname gives one a sense of belonging and special affection. So, the next time you hear a Chinese nickname, remember there's more to it than just the name. It carries a tale of affection, humor, history, and, above all, the beauty of human relationships.

Jing You is a Chinese native who grew up in the Fujian province and soaked in the Chinese culture while living with her grandparents. She later moved to Singapore to pursue further education. However, she has always been passionate about the Mandarin language despite being in an environment that speaks English predominantly. She was involved in multiple Mandarin and Chinese culture programmes in schools, and brought this passion forward by tutoring elementary school students Mandarin in her adulthood.