羊肚 (yáng dǔ) literally means 'sheep stomach' and refers specifically to the edible stomach lining of sheep or lamb — commonly known in English as tripe. The first character, 羊 (yáng), means 'sheep' or 'lamb', while 肚 (dǔ) means 'stomach' or 'belly'. Unlike the more general term 肚子 (dùzi), which refers to the abdomen or belly in everyday speech, 肚 (dǔ) in compound words like this one carries a formal or culinary meaning.

This word is used almost exclusively in food-related contexts — especially in traditional Chinese cuisine, where sheep tripe is prized for its chewy texture and rich flavor. It appears frequently in hotpot, soups, stir-fries, and cold appetizers, particularly in northern and northwestern regions of China. Though it may sound unappetizing to newcomers, 羊肚 is considered a delicacy and nutrient-rich ingredient, often paired with vinegar, garlic, or chili oil to enhance its taste.