佩带 is a verb meaning 'to wear'—specifically for items that are fastened or hung on the body, such as medals, badges, necklaces, watches, or even swords. The character 佩 (pèi) originally meant 'to hang at the waist' and carries connotations of honor, status, or readiness; 带 (dài) means 'to carry' or 'to wear' in the sense of having something attached to one’s person. Together, 佩带 emphasizes intentional, often formal or symbolic wearing—not casual clothing like shirts or pants, which use 穿 (chuān).

This word appears frequently in official, ceremonial, or military contexts: police officers 佩带 badges, students 佩带 school ID cards, or historical figures 佩带 swords as symbols of rank or duty. It can also describe wearing protective gear (e.g., safety helmets) when emphasizing proper attachment and function. Unlike 穿 or 戴, 佩带 implies both physical attachment and social or functional significance.