九
Jiu
Pronounced like: "Jyoo"
Other Spellings: Jiu, Gau, Kyu, Gu, Chiu
Quick Facts
Origin and History of the Jiu Family Name
The origins of the Jiu surname are multifaceted. One primary lineage traces back to the ancient Jiu Li (九黎) tribe, a powerful confederation during the era of the Yellow Emperor and Yan Emperor, led by the legendary Chiyou. Another source is the shortening of compound surnames such as Jiu Fang (九方), a prominent clan known for their expertise in horse appraisal during the Spring and Autumn period. Additionally, historical records suggest that some families adopted the name based on official titles or territorial grants involving the number nine, such as those governing the 'Nine Provinces' (Jiu Zhou). Throughout history, ethnic minority groups like the Manchu and Hui have also assimilated this surname into their nomenclature during periods of cultural integration, particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties when many chose single-character Han-style surnames.
What Does the Chinese Surname Jiu Mean?
The surname '九' (Jiu) literally translates to the number nine. In Chinese cosmology and culture, nine is considered the ultimate yang number, representing supremacy, eternity, and the pinnacle of achievement. It is a homophone for 'eternity' (久), making it a deeply auspicious character associated with longevity. Historically, the name may have been adopted by families residing near geographical landmarks containing the word 'nine,' such as Nine Rivers (Jiujiang) or Nine Mountains, or by those associated with the ancient Jiu Li tribe. While exceptionally rare today, it carries a sense of ancient prestige and mystical significance, often linked to the structural organization of ancient governance or tribal alliances, reflecting a heritage tied to the very foundations of early Chinese civilization and symbolic numerology.
Global Pronunciation and Variants of Jiu
| Variant | Primary Region |
|---|---|
| Jiu | Mandarin |
| Gau | Cantonese |
| Kyu | Japanese |
| Gu | Hmong/Miao |
| Chiu | Alternative Romanization |
Famous People With the Surname Jiu
1. Jiu Hou (九侯): A prominent Marquis during the Shang Dynasty who served King Zhou; he was a high-ranking noble whose tragic end is documented in the Shiji.
2. Jiu Fang Gao (九方皋): A legendary master of horse appraisal from the State of Qin during the Spring and Autumn period, famous for identifying a horse's internal spirit over its appearance.
3. Jiu Ying (九英): A noted figure mentioned in ancient local records during the Han Dynasty, recognized for regional leadership and maintaining the traditions of the Jiu clan.
Clan Motto
Traditional clan mottos for the 九 surname emphasize virtues such as integrity, diligence, and respect for one's ancestors. While specific wording may vary across regions and historical branches of the family, the spirit of these mottos is to honor the family line and live with moral responsibility in everyday life.
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Chinese Surnames & Last Names FAQ
What does the Chinese surname Jiu (九) mean?+
The surname '九' (Jiu) literally translates to the number nine. In Chinese cosmology and culture, nine is considered the ultimate yang number, representing supremacy, eternity, and the pinnacle of achievement. It is a homophone for 'eternity' (久), making it a deeply auspicious character associated with longevity. Historically, the name may have been adopted by families residing near geographical landmarks containing the word 'nine,' such as Nine Rivers (Jiujiang) or Nine Mountains, or by those associated with the ancient Jiu Li tribe. While exceptionally rare today, it carries a sense of ancient prestige and mystical significance, often linked to the structural organization of ancient governance or tribal alliances, reflecting a heritage tied to the very foundations of early Chinese civilization and symbolic numerology.
How common is the surname Jiu?+
The surname Jiu ranks approximately #599 among all Chinese surnames.
How do you pronounce the surname 九?+
In Mandarin Pinyin, it is written as Jiu. For English speakers, it is pronounced similarly to "Jyoo".
How many Chinese surnames are there?+
Historically, there are over 4,000 Chinese surnames, but only about 500 are in common use today. Our database covers these 500+ essential family names.
What are the most common Chinese last names?+
The most common Chinese last names are Wang (王), Li (李), and Zhang (张). Together, they account for over 20% of the population in China.
Are Chinese names written surname first?+
Yes, in Chinese culture, the surname is written first, followed by the given name. For example, in 'Li Shimin', 'Li' is the family name.
How can I find the meaning of my Chinese last name?+
Every Chinese surname has a distinct meaning rooted in ancient clans, professions, or elements. You can search our directory to find the specific origin of your name.
What is the 'Hundred Family Surnames' (Baijiaxing)?+
The 'Hundred Family Surnames' (百家姓) is a classic Chinese text compiling common surnames. Originally containing over 400 last names, it is a foundational piece of Chinese cultural identity.
Are there two-character Chinese surnames?+
Yes. While most are single-character (like Wang or Li), there are compound surnames (复姓 - Fùxìng) consisting of two characters, such as Ouyang (欧阳), Zhuge (诸葛), and Sima (司马).
Do Chinese women change their last name after marriage?+
Traditionally, no. Chinese women keep their maiden surname after marriage. It is very rare for a wife to adopt her husband's last name in Chinese culture.
What is the oldest Chinese surname?+
The oldest Chinese surnames often contain the 'woman' radical (女), such as Ji (姬), Jiang (姜), and Yao (姚), tracing back thousands of years to ancient matriarchal societies.
Why do so many people share the same Chinese last name?+
Due to centuries of population growth, clan consolidations, and the historical adoption of imperial surnames, a massive portion of the population now shares a small pool of common last names.
How are Chinese last names inherited?+
A Chinese surname is almost universally inherited from the father, maintaining the patrilineal clan lineage spanning dozens of generations.