聘礼 (pìn lǐ) refers to the traditional gifts or valuables presented by the groom’s family to the bride’s family during formal engagement ceremonies in Chinese marriage customs. The character 聘 (pìn) means 'to hire' or 'to appoint', but in this context it carries the classical sense of 'formally requesting a marriage alliance'; 礼 (lǐ) means 'ritual', 'ceremony', or 'gift'. Together, 聘礼 signifies the symbolic and respectful offering that seals the betrothal agreement—historically including items like money, jewelry, tea, wine, or auspicious foods such as red dates and lotus seeds.

While modern urban couples may simplify or even omit the practice, 聘礼 remains culturally significant in many regions, especially in rural areas or families emphasizing tradition. It reflects mutual respect between families, not a transactional 'bride price', though misunderstandings sometimes arise. The amount and composition of the 聘礼 are often negotiated and vary widely by region, socioeconomic background, and family expectations.