Chinese · Work & Business
老板
lǎobǎn
Boss
Beginnernoun
Definition
The person in charge of a business or employees.
Example
我们老板对员工很好。
Our boss treats the employees well.
Etymology
'老板' (lǎobǎn) comprises '老' (lǎo), meaning 'old' or 'respected', and '板' (bǎn), which originally referred to a type of board or slip of wood, later adapted to mean 'boss'. Its usage reflects respect in hierarchical work relationships.
How & Where It’s Used
'老板' is commonly used in informal contexts to refer to a boss or employer, predominantly in spoken language. The term is widely recognized across China and holds significance in business environments.