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
Les origines du nom de famille Zhao remontent à la dynastie des Zhou occidentaux (v. 1046-771 av. J.-C.). On dit que le roi Mu de Zhou a accordé le fief de Zhao (situé dans l'actuel comté de Hongdong, province du Shanxi) à son habile charretier, Zaofu, en récompense de sa bravoure et de sa loyauté. Les descendants de Zaofu ont adopté le nom du fief comme nom de clan. Ce clan a ensuite établi l'État de Zhao, qui est devenu l'une des sept puissances dominantes pendant la période des Royaumes combattants. Après la conquête de l'État de Zhao par la dynastie Qin en 228 av. J.-C., ses habitants ont continué à utiliser ce nom. Une deuxième vague d'importance majeure s'est produite lorsque Zhao Kuangyin a fondé la dynastie Song, faisant de Zhao le nom le plus prestigieux de Chine pendant trois siècles.
What Does the Chinese Surname Zhao Mean?
Le nom de famille Zhao (赵) est profondément ancré dans l'histoire et la culture chinoises. Étymologiquement, le caractère est composé d'éléments suggérant le mouvement et la rapidité, se référant à l'origine à une démarche de marche rapide ou au fait de surpasser les autres. Historiquement, il est passé d'une désignation géographique au titre d'une maison noble. Il a acquis un prestige immense en tant que nom de famille impérial de la dynastie Song (960-1279 après J.-C.). En raison de ce lien royal, Zhao est classé au premier rang des 'Cent noms de famille' (Baijiaxing). Il symbolise la noblesse, le leadership et l'agilité. Aujourd'hui, il reste l'un des noms les plus courants et respectés de la sphère chinoise, représentant une lignée qui a produit de nombreux empereurs, généraux et érudits.
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 : Un général légendaire de l'État de Shu Han pendant la période des Trois Royaumes, célébré pour sa bravoure sans égale et sa loyauté inébranlable.
2. Zhao Kuangyin : Également connu sous le nom d'empereur Taizu de Song, il fut le fondateur de la dynastie Song qui a réussi à unifier la Chine et à privilégier l'administration civile sur le régime militaire.
3. Zhao Mengfu : Un brillant érudit, peintre et calligraphe de la dynastie Yuan dont l'œuvre a mené un renouveau classiciste et a profondément influencé l'histoire de l'art chinois ultérieur.
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.
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