赵
Traditional: 趙
Zhao
Pronounced like: "Jow (rhymes with 'now')"
Other Spellings: Chiu, Chao, Tiu, Djeu, Trieu
Quick Facts
Origin and History of the Zhao Family Name
The origins of the Zhao surname trace back to the Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 1046–771 BC). It is said that King Mu of Zhou granted the fief of Zhao (located in modern-day Hongdong County, Shanxi Province) to his skilled charioteer, Zaofu, as a reward for his bravery and loyalty during a military expedition. Zaofu’s descendants adopted the name of the fief as their clan name. This clan later established the State of Zhao, which became one of the seven dominant powers during the Warring States period. After the State of Zhao was conquered by the Qin Dynasty in 228 BC, its people continued to use the name to honor their heritage. A second major surge in the surname's prominence occurred when Zhao Kuangyin founded the Song Dynasty, making Zhao the most prestigious surname in China for over three centuries.
What Does the Chinese Surname Zhao Mean?
The surname Zhao (赵) is deeply embedded in Chinese history and culture. Etymologically, the character is composed of components suggesting movement and swiftness, originally referring to a quick-walking gait or to surpass others. Historically, it evolved from a geographical designation to a noble house's title. It gained immense prestige as the imperial surname of the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). Because of this royal connection, Zhao is famously listed as the first surname in the 'Hundred Family Surnames' (Baijiaxing), a classic Chinese text. It symbolizes nobility, leadership, and agility. Today, it remains one of the most common and respected surnames in the Sinosphere, representing a lineage that has produced numerous emperors, generals, and scholars over three millennia of recorded history.
Global Pronunciation and Variants of Zhao
| Variant | Primary Region |
|---|---|
| Chiu | Cantonese |
| Chao | Wade-Giles |
| Tiu | Hokkien |
| Djeu | Shanghainese |
| Trieu | Vietnamese |
Famous People With the Surname Zhao
1. Zhao Yun: A legendary military general of the Shu Han state during the Three Kingdoms period, celebrated for his peerless bravery and unwavering loyalty.
2. Zhao Kuangyin: Also known as Emperor Taizu of Song, he was the founder of the Song Dynasty who successfully unified China and prioritized civil administration over military rule.
3. Zhao Mengfu: A brilliant scholar, painter, and calligrapher of the Yuan Dynasty whose work led a classicist revival and profoundly influenced later Chinese art history.
Clan Motto
Traditional clan mottos for the 赵 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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BaZi and why does it matter for a Chinese name?+
BaZi (八字), or the Four Pillars of Destiny, is the traditional Chinese astrological framework based on your exact birth time. FindChineseName uses BaZi to calculate your Five Elements (Wu Xing) profile, ensuring your custom name provides astrological balance and cultural harmony.
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Do you explain the meaning behind the Chinese characters?+
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By default, FindChineseName assigns a culturally compatible surname based on your profile. However, users have the full flexibility to adopt a specific family name if they have existing cultural ties or preferences.