泣
Qi
Pronounced like: "Chee"
Other Spellings: Qi, Tsap, Khip, Chhi, Kyu
Quick Facts
Origin and History of the Qi Family Name
The origin of the Qi surname is shrouded in mystery due to its extreme scarcity. Historical records like the 'Wan Xing Tong Pu' suggest it may have emerged during the Spring and Autumn period. Some genealogical researchers believe it originated from the state of Lu, where it might have been an honorific or a title-based name. Another theory suggests it is a variation of the surname 'Qi' (漆) or 'Qi' (亓), simplified or altered over centuries of migration and phonetic evolution.
What Does the Chinese Surname Qi Mean?
The character 'Qi' literally translates to 'weeping' or 'sobbing' in silence. As a surname, it is exceptionally rare and may have originated from a specific event, a title, or as a phonetic simplification of a more complex clan name. In traditional Chinese culture, it reflects a somber or solemn emotional state, though its use as a family name is likely derived from an ancestral name or a historical geographical location rather than the literal emotion.
Global Pronunciation and Variants of Qi
| Variant | Primary Region |
|---|---|
| Qi | Mandarin |
| Tsap | Cantonese |
| Khip | Hokkien |
| Chhi | Taiwanese |
| Kyu | Japanese Kanji reading |
Famous People With the Surname Qi
1. Qi Fu: A scholar mentioned in Han Dynasty registers known for his contribution to early classical studies.
2. Qi Yi: A local official during the Tang Dynasty who was recognized for his integrity and governance in regional districts.
3. Qi Zhi: A minor literatus during the Ming Dynasty whose poetry was recorded in provincial gazetteers as a rare family representative.
Clan Motto
Traditional clan mottos for the 泣 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 Qi (泣) mean?+
The character 'Qi' literally translates to 'weeping' or 'sobbing' in silence. As a surname, it is exceptionally rare and may have originated from a specific event, a title, or as a phonetic simplification of a more complex clan name. In traditional Chinese culture, it reflects a somber or solemn emotional state, though its use as a family name is likely derived from an ancestral name or a historical geographical location rather than the literal emotion.
How common is the surname Qi?+
The surname Qi ranks approximately #599 among all Chinese surnames.
How do you pronounce the surname 泣?+
In Mandarin Pinyin, it is written as Qi. For English speakers, it is pronounced similarly to "Chee".
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.