bánh bao
[ʔɓajŋ̟˧˦ ʔɓaːw˧˧]
The English phrase "bao" (referring to the Chinese steamed stuffed bun) is translated into Vietnamese as bánh bao.
In Vietnamese, when you are referring to this specific food item, the word bao is almost always preceded by the word bánh.
Meaning: Chinese steamed stuffed bun (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term bánh bao is composed of two parts: bánh, which refers to a cake or bread-like item and bao, which refers to a bun or a covering.
Did you know?
- The word bánh is an ancient term found in Vietnamese texts from the 12th century, long before the French arrived in Vietnam.
- While bánh bao describes the bun, the word bánh is so versatile that it is used for items that are not baked or steamed, such as rice cakes.
- While bao refers to the bun in this context, the word 'bao' alone can also mean a 'bag' or a 'sack' in many other Vietnamese expressions.
Examples in context
- Tôi muốn mua một cái bánh bao.I want to buy a steamed bun.
- Bánh bao ở đây rất ngon.The steamed buns here are very delicious.
- Bạn có thích ăn bánh bao không?Do you like eating steamed buns?
Example conversation
Lan and Hùng are deciding what to have for breakfast.
- LanHùng ơi, ăn bánh bao nhé?Hùng, shall we eat steamed buns?
- HùngĐược, tôi cũng đang đói.Sure, I am hungry too.
- LanTôi sẽ mua bánh bao thịt.I will buy meat steamed buns.
- HùngCảm ơn Lan nhiều nhé.Thank you very much, Lan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bao” translations and entries bánh bao, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bao, bánh, bánh bao, CC BY-SA 4.0.
