red envelope UK /ˌɹɛd ˈɛnvələʊp/US /ˌɹɛd ˈɛnvəˌloʊp/ noun1 •In Chinese communities, a decorated paper envelope, traditionally red, containing a gift of money (lucky money) presented during special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and the Chinese New Year; also, the gift of money presented in such an envelope. formsred envelopes