‘项链’ (xiàng liàn) is a compound noun meaning 'necklace' — a piece of jewelry worn around the neck. The first character, 项 (xiàng), literally means 'nape' or 'back of the neck', specifying the body part where the item is worn. The second character, 链 (liàn), means 'chain', indicating the typical structure of the accessory — a linked metal or beaded strand. Together, they form a precise, everyday term for any decorative chain-style necklace, whether simple or ornate.

This word is neutral in register and widely used in both spoken and written Chinese. It appears frequently in contexts like shopping, gift-giving, fashion descriptions, and personal appearance. Unlike more literary or poetic terms (e.g., 项圈, which can mean 'collar' or even 'dog collar'), 项链 carries no negative connotation and is exclusively associated with human adornment. It’s commonly modified by measure words like 一条 (yī tiáo) — 'one strand' — reflecting its linear, flexible form.