应邀 means 'at someone's invitation' or 'to accept an invitation'. It is a compound verb formed from 应 (yìng), meaning 'to respond to' or 'to comply with', and 邀 (yāo), meaning 'to invite'. Together, they convey the idea of responding affirmatively to an invitation — not merely receiving it, but actively accepting and attending. The word implies formality and respect, often used in professional, academic, or official contexts.

应邀 is typically followed by a verb indicating the action taken in response to the invitation — for example, 应邀出席 (attend at someone’s invitation), 应邀演讲 (deliver a speech at someone’s invitation), or 应邀访问 (visit at someone’s invitation). It is rarely used alone as a standalone noun or adjective; its grammatical function is almost always verbal and requires a complement to complete its meaning. While neutral in tone, it carries a subtle connotation of honor or privilege — suggesting the inviter holds status or authority.