Chinese surnames (xìngshì 姓氏) are more than just family identifiers; they are living pieces of history, philosophy, and cultural heritage. With over 5,000 documented surnames in China, each one carries a unique story, whether tied to ancient royalty, nature, occupations, or virtues.
Did you know that Wang (王), Li (李), and Zhang (张) alone account for over 300 million people? Yet, beyond these giants, there are countless surnames with deep meanings, some dating back thousands of years.
In this guide, we’ll explore 120+ common Chinese surnames, organized by their origins and meanings. Whether you’re researching your family name, curious about Chinese culture, or just love etymology, you’ll find something fascinating here!
1. Royal & Noble Surnames (From Ancient Dynasties)
Many of China’s most widespread last names originated from ruling families and aristocratic clans.
Imperial Dynastic Surnames
- Wáng (王) – “King” – The most common surname in China, often adopted by descendants of royalty.
- Lǐ (李) – “Plum tree” – The Tang Dynasty’s imperial surname, symbolizing resilience.
- Liú (刘) – “To destroy” (in a warrior sense) – The Han Dynasty’s ruling family name.
- Zhū (朱) – “Vermilion/Red” – The Ming Dynasty’s imperial surname, representing power.
- Zhào (赵) – “To walk quickly” – Linked to the Song Dynasty and nobility.
- Chén (陈) – “Ancient” or “Exhibit” – A royal name from the Chen Dynasty.
- Yáng (杨) – “Poplar tree” – A noble surname during the Tang Dynasty.
- Hú (胡) – “Barbarian” (historically) – Adopted by non-Han rulers who assimilated.
High-Ranking Clan Names
- Xiè (谢) – “To thank” – A prestigious aristocratic surname.
- Yuán (袁) – “Long robe” – A noble family name from the Han Dynasty.
- Sūn (孙) – “Grandson” or “Descendant” – A respected military family name.
- Gāo (高) – “Tall” or “High” – Linked to nobility and scholars.
2. Nature-Inspired Surnames (From the Natural World)
Many Chinese surnames come from elements of nature, reflecting harmony with the environment.
Plant & Tree-Based Surnames
- Lín (林) – “Forest” – Symbolizing growth and prosperity.
- Huā (花) – “Flower” – A poetic and elegant surname.
- Yè (叶) – “Leaf” – Represents renewal and life.
- Táo (桃) – “Peach” – A symbol of longevity in Chinese culture.
- Liǔ (柳) – “Willow” – Associated with grace and flexibility.
Mountain, Water & Sky Names
- Shān (山) – “Mountain” – Denotes strength and stability.
- Hé (河) – “River” – Represents flow and continuity.
- Hǎi (海) – “Sea” – Symbolizing vastness and depth.
- Yún (云) – “Cloud” – Evokes mystery and freedom.
- Fēng (风) – “Wind” – Signifying change and movement.
Animal & Mythological Names
- Lóng (龙) – “Dragon” – A powerful and auspicious surname.
- Fèng (凤) – “Phoenix” – Symbolizing rebirth and nobility.
- Hǔ (虎) – “Tiger” – Represents bravery and fierceness.
3. Occupational Surnames (From Ancient Jobs)
Some surnames originated from professions, much like Western names such as “Smith” or “Baker.”
Military & Leadership Roles
- Sīmǎ (司马) – “Horse officer” – A high-ranking military title.
- Jiàng (将) – “General” – A surname for military leaders.
- Shī (师) – “Teacher” or “Master” – Linked to scholars and mentors.
Craftsmanship & Labor
- Tài (邰) – “Harvest” – Originally an agricultural surname.
- Mù (牧) – “Shepherd” – For families who herded livestock.
- Tán (谭) – “From the furnace” – Possibly linked to blacksmiths.
Artistic & Skilled Trades
- Gōng (宫) – “Palace” – Likely tied to palace artisans.
- Qín (琴) – “Zither” – A surname for musicians.
- Huà (画) – “Painting” – Possibly for artists.
4. Geographic Surnames (From Ancient States & Regions)
Many Chinese surnames come from historical kingdoms, cities, or landmarks.
From Ancient Chinese States
- Wú (吴) – From the Wu State (during the Zhou Dynasty).
- Zhèng (郑) – From the Zheng State.
- Qín (秦) – From the Qin Dynasty (China’s first unified empire).
- Chǔ (楚) – From the Chu Kingdom (a powerful warring state).
- Yān (燕) – From the Yan State (Northern China).
From Landmarks & Directions
- Dōng (东) – “East”
- Xī (西) – “West”
- Nán (南) – “South”
- Běi (北) – “North”
5. Virtue & Philosophy-Based Surnames
Confucian values deeply influenced Chinese naming traditions.
Confucian Virtues
- Rén (仁) – “Benevolence”
- Yì (义) – “Righteousness”
- Xìn (信) – “Trust”
- Zhì (智) – “Wisdom”
- Yǒng (勇) – “Bravery”
Positive Traits
- Ān (安) – “Peace”
- Fú (福) – “Good fortune”
- Jí (吉) – “Lucky”
6. Rare & Two-Character (Compound) Surnames
Most Chinese surnames are single-syllable, but a few are double-character.
- Ōuyáng (欧阳) – From ancient Yue royalty.
- Zhūgě (诸葛) – Famous due to the legendary strategist Zhuge Liang.
- Húanyuán (轩辕) – Linked to the Yellow Emperor, a mythical ruler.
- Sītú (司徒) – “Minister of Education” in ancient times.
Why Do Chinese Surnames Matter?
Chinese last names are more than just labels; they connect people to their ancestors, cultural values, and historical roots. Whether your surname is Wang (王, “king”) or Lin (林, “forest”), it tells a story that spans generations.
Did You Know?
- There are over 7,000 surnames in China, but the top 100 cover 85% of the population.
- Some surnames are nearly extinct, like Guī (归, “return”), with fewer than 100 bearers today.
- Women traditionally kept their surnames after marriage, unlike in many Western cultures.
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Final Thoughts
Exploring Chinese surnames is like opening a history book; each name carries echoes of ancient dynasties, philosophical ideals, and natural beauty. Whether you’re researching your own family name or just curious about Chinese culture, these surnames offer a fascinating glimpse into China’s past.
What’s your surname? Does it have a special meaning? Share in the comments!
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