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Origin and meaning of the name Ngoc

What is the origin of the name Ngoc?

The given name "Ngoc" is of Vietnamese origin. In Vietnamese, Ngọc refers to precious stones, particularly jade or pearls, which are highly valued in traditional Vietnamese culture due to their beauty and rarity. It serves as a unisex name, meaning it can be given to both males and females.

Learn more about the origin of the name Ngoc

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Ngoc

The name Ngoc is a Vietnamese given name that derives from the Vietnamese word "ngọc," which means "jade," "gem," or "precious stone." This name signifies beauty, rarity, and value, as jade was highly valued in Asian cultures for its aesthetic and symbolic properties. The name Ngoc is often given to girls born on a Tuesday according to the Vietnamese lunar calendar, which associates that day with preciousness and good fortune. In ancient Vietnam, jade was considered one of the Four Precious Stones (Tu Ngọc), along with gold, silver, and crystal, signifying wealth and status. The name Ngoc is popular in Vietnam and among Vietnamese diaspora communities around the world, reflecting the enduring cultural significance of precious stones as symbols of beauty and value.

Character traits associated with the name Ngoc

Ngoc is often associated with qualities such as wisdom, grace, and resilience. In Vietnamese culture, Ngoc symbolizes purity, innocence, and integrity. People named Ngoc are typically known for their calm demeanor, thoughtful nature, and strong moral compass. They possess a deep sense of empathy, making them compassionate and understanding individuals. Their adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity reflect a strength that is admired by many. However, they may occasionally come across as reserved or introspective due to their thoughtful nature. The name Ngoc suggests an individual who values harmony, wisdom, and the pursuit of knowledge, making them well-respected and valued members of their community.

Popularity of the name Ngoc

The Vietnamese female given name Ngoc enjoys moderate popularity within the Vietnamese community, particularly in Vietnam and among Vietnamese diaspora communities worldwide. Derived from the Vietnamese word for "brightness" or "shimmering," Ngoc is often bestowed upon newborn girls to symbolize hope and positivity. Its rank in popularity can vary depending on regional cultural influences and personal preference, but it remains a commonly used name in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. In Western societies, the name Ngoc may be less well-known, though its unique and exotic quality often generates curiosity among those unfamiliar with Vietnamese culture.

Famous people with the name Ngoc

Ngoc is a Vietnamese given name that has been borne by several notable individuals across various fields. In the world of entertainment, Ngoc Lan Phan is a renowned actress and model, known for her roles in both Vietnamese and American productions. In the realm of science, Dr. Ngoc Minh Ngo, a molecular biologist, has made significant contributions to understanding the genetic basis of cancer. Politically, Ngoc Song Nguyen served as the first Vietnamese ambassador to the United States following the Vietnam War. Lastly, in sports, Ngoc Tran is a professional golfer who has competed on the LPGA Tour. These individuals, each in their respective domains, embody the versatility and achievements of those named Ngoc around the globe.

Variations of the name Ngoc

The Vietnamese name Ngoc can be transcribed and spelled in various ways in English, depending on the transliteration method used. Some common spellings include Ngoc, Nguyen Ngoc, Nguyên Ngọc, Nguyễn Ngọc, or even Ngugc, although this last one is less common due to its deviation from traditional Vietnamese spelling rules. The name Ngoc is a unisex name and it can be given to both boys and girls in Vietnam. It originates from the Vietnamese word "ngọc" which means "star," "gem," or "jewel." It is often used as a symbol of beauty, luck, and rarity in Vietnamese culture. In addition to its meaning, Ngoc can also serve as a surname or family name in some cases, with Nguyen being the more common surname for those bearing the given name Ngoc.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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