The Secret Meanings Behind Common Chinese Surnames

Chinese surnames aren’t just labels - they’re tiny history lessons. While Western names like 'Baker' or 'Taylor' hint at professions, Chinese surnames often carry deeper cultural, geographical, or even mythological significance. Let’s crack open the vault on some of the most common ones.

1. 王 (Wáng) – The King of Surnames

No, not all Wángs are secretly royalty (though some might wish they were). This surname literally means 'king' or 'monarch,' and it’s the most common surname in China. Historically, it was often adopted by descendants of royal families or people who, you know, really liked the idea of being in charge.

王 (Wáng)

/wɑŋ³⁵/

“King”

Derived from the title for rulers, this surname symbolises authority and nobility. It’s so common that if you shout 'Wáng!' in a crowded street, at least five people will turn around.

Wiktionary

2. 李 (Lǐ) – The Plum Dynasty

Lǐ means 'plum,' but don’t let the fruity connotation fool you. This surname was the family name of the Tang Dynasty emperors, one of China’s golden ages. Today, it’s the second most common surname, proving that plums have staying power.

Fun fact: The Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) was so influential that 'Tang' is still used in Mandarin to refer to Chinatowns abroad (唐人街, Tángrénjiē).

3. 张 (Zhāng) – The Archer’s Legacy

Zhāng originally referred to someone who made bows or was skilled in archery. It’s now the third most common surname, so if you meet a Zhāng, there’s a non-zero chance their ancestors were sharpshooters.

For more on how Chinese characters encode history, check out our guide on avoiding common pitfalls when learning Chinese characters.

4. 刘 (Liú) – The Blade Connection

Liú is tied to the word for 'kill' or 'destroy' (戮, lù), but don’t panic - it’s more about ancient weaponry than homicidal tendencies. This surname was famously borne by the Han Dynasty emperors, so it’s got a warrior-king vibe.

刘 (Liú)

/ljoʊ/

“Kill/Destroy (historically linked to weapons)”

A name with martial roots, often associated with leadership and military prowess. Also, the surname of Liu Bei, a legendary figure in the 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms.'

Wiktionary

5. 陈 (Chén) – The Old Guard

Chén means 'to exhibit' or 'ancient,' and it’s one of the oldest surnames in China. Many Chéns trace their lineage back to the ancient Chen state, proving that some families really stick around.

Common in southern China, especially Fujian and Guangdong.
Famous Chéns: Bruce Lee (李小龍, but his mother was a Chén), and Chen Duxiu, a key figure in early Chinese communism.

Why Do Surnames Matter?

In China, surnames aren’t just identifiers - they’re cultural DNA. They reflect migration patterns, historical events, and even social hierarchies. Want to dig deeper? Compare this to the significance of Hindi names or Russian surnames for a global perspective.

Pro tip: If you’re learning Chinese, memorising common surnames like these will make remembering people’s names way easier. You’re welcome.