The word 彩排 is formed by combining two characters: 彩 (cǎi), meaning "color" or "decorative", and 排 (pái), meaning "to arrange" or "to rehearse". It originates from the context of theatrical performance, where the final rehearsal is conducted with full costumes, makeup, and props, adding the "color", as opposed to an ordinary practice. Thus, the term metaphorically fuses the idea of a fully dressed, complete arrangement to signify a final rehearsal before the actual show.