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Last Name Goh

What is the origin of the last name Goh?

The surname "Goh" is of Chinese origin. In Chinese, "Goh" is often transliterated from the characters 高 or 吴, which have different meanings and origins. The exact origin of the surname "Goh" can vary depending on the region and specific dialect of Chinese. In some cases, it may also be of Malay or Indonesian origin.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Goh

The meaning and origin of the last name Goh

The surname Goh is of Chinese origin and is commonly found among the Chinese community. In Mandarin, Goh is spelled as 吴 (Wú), which is one of the most common Chinese surnames. The surname has its roots in ancient Chinese history, with several prominent figures bearing the name throughout the centuries. The name is believed to have originated from the state of Wu during the Spring and Autumn period (771-476 BC) in China. The state of Wu was located in present-day Jiangsu province and was known for its martial prowess and cultural achievements. The surname Goh is still prevalent today among the Chinese diaspora worldwide, with variations in spelling and pronunciation depending on the region or dialect.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goh

The surname Goh is most commonly found in several countries in Asia, particularly in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The name is also present in China and Taiwan, where it is typically spelled as Wu or Yu. In addition, there are individuals with the surname Goh residing in Western countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada, primarily as a result of immigration or diaspora from Asia. The name may have variations in spelling or pronunciation depending on the region, but it generally retains its Chinese origin. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Goh indicates its strong presence in Asia, particularly in countries with significant Chinese populations, as well as its spread to other regions through migration and globalization.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goh

Variations and spellings of the last name Goh include Goe, Gau, Go, Guo, Gao, Ko, Goo, Khou, and Koh. These variations may be the result of different transliterations from languages such as Chinese or Korean or different pronunciations in various dialects. The last name Goh is a common surname in countries such as China, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea. The spelling of the last name may also be influenced by factors such as migration, historical events, or personal preference. Regardless of the spelling or variation, the last name Goh usually carries the same meaning and cultural significance for individuals who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Goh

One famous person with the last name Goh is Goh Chok Tong, who served as the Prime Minister of Singapore from 1990 to 2004. He succeeded Lee Kuan Yew as Prime Minister and was known for his economic reforms and efforts to improve the quality of life in Singapore. Another notable figure with the last name Goh is Michelle Goh, a Malaysian actress and film producer who has appeared in a number of successful movies and television shows. She is known for her versatility and talent in the entertainment industry. Overall, the Goh family name is associated with individuals who have made significant contributions in politics, entertainment, and various other fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Goh

The last name Goh has its origins in China, Malaysia, and Singapore. The surname is believed to have derived from the Chinese character "吳", which means "martial" or "warlike". It is a common surname among the Hokkien Chinese community, and there are several notable individuals with the surname Goh in history. Genealogical research on the Goh surname traces the family line back to various regions in China, with many descendants migrating to Malaysia and Singapore in search of better opportunities. The Goh family tree may include individuals who were scholars, businessmen, or government officials, contributing to the diverse history and heritage of the surname. Today, the Goh surname continues to be widespread in Southeast Asia, with descendants maintaining strong connections to their Chinese roots while embracing the culture of their adopted countries.

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 : 11 April 2025

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