The term Khataei in texts related to the art of book design in Iran is regarded as the second principle among the seven fundamental principles of Iranian painting and decorative arts. The significance of this study is to elucidate the meaning and concept embedded in the term "Khataei". The etymological analysis of the term Khataei in iranian art holds significance from two perspectives: the analysis of its meaning and roots in relation to the city of Khotan in China and its Chinese motifs, and the relationship of the term Khataei, meaning "error," with the lines resulting from mistakes, errors, and slips in juxtaposing Khatai motifs (Chinese art) against Islamic motifs (Islamic civilization art). This study is descriptive-analytical, utilizing literary, historical, and specialized sources to delve into the realms of semantics and etymology, to identify and elucidate the meaning and concept of the term Khataei. The term Khataei is derived from Khatay and Khotan in China, while the term Khataei itself is based on two principles: 1.The region of Khataei located in China and the introduction of the Chinese Khataei motifs in Iran. 2.Its connotation of error and slip in juxtaposing Khataei against Islamic motifs. Because these motifs are Islamic. Furthermore, in some sources and narratives, the originator of Islamic motifs is attributed to Imam Ali (AS). According to the findings, it can be concluded that the meaning and roots of the term Khataei in both written forms pertain to the regions of "Khataei and Khotan," territories in China.