贺礼 (hè lǐ) literally combines 贺 (hè), meaning 'to congratulate' or 'to celebrate', and 礼 (lǐ), meaning 'gift' or 'ritual offering'. Together, it refers specifically to a gift given to express congratulations on a joyful occasion—such as a wedding, graduation, promotion, or new baby. Unlike general gifts (礼物), 贺礼 carries a formal, ceremonial connotation and is usually presented with intention and respect.

This term is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, especially in invitations, announcements, and polite conversation. It implies social obligation and cultural etiquette: giving a 贺礼 signals participation in the celebrant’s happiness and acknowledges the significance of the milestone. While cash in red envelopes (红包) is the most frequent form of 贺礼 in modern practice, physical items like calligraphy scrolls, decorative vases, or gourmet hampers are also appropriate depending on the occasion and relationship.