'丐名' literally means 'to beg for fame'—a vivid, pejorative expression describing someone who desperately seeks public attention, recognition, or reputation through shallow, insincere, or unethical means. The character 丐 (gài) means 'beggar' and conveys desperation and lack of dignity; 名 (míng) means 'name' or 'reputation'. Together, they evoke the image of someone groveling for fame like a beggar pleading for alms—implying moral compromise, self-promotion at any cost, and a disregard for authenticity or merit.

This term is commonly used in media criticism, social commentary, and online discourse to condemn influencers, celebrities, or officials who stage scandals, fabricate achievements, or exploit tragedies solely to boost their profile. It carries strong negative connotations and is rarely used neutrally—it’s almost always judgmental and rhetorical, often appearing in editorials, opinion pieces, or heated debates about integrity and social values.