Last Name Leow

The last name "Leow" is of Chinese origin. It is a variant of the Chinese surname "Liu" which is one of the most common surnames in China. The surname "Liu" can also be romanized as "Leow" in the Hokkien dialect. The name "Leow" may have originated from the Chinese character 刘 (Liu), which means "kill" or "destroy."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Leow

The meaning and origin of the last name Leow

The surname Leow is of Chinese origin and is believed to be derived from the Chinese word "liu", which means willow tree. The willow tree holds significance in Chinese culture as a symbol of resilience and grace. It is also seen as a symbol of immortality and everlasting life. The surname Leow is commonly found among Chinese communities, particularly in the southern regions of China. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation may have led to different versions of the surname, such as Lu, Lau, or Liu. Individuals with the surname Leow may have ancestors who were connected to the willow tree in some way, or may have been given this surname to signify qualities associated with the tree, such as strength, flexibility, and longevity.

Geographical distribution of the last name Leow

The last name Leow is primarily found in Southeast Asia, with a significant concentration in Malaysia and Singapore. In Malaysia, the name is most prevalent among the Chinese population, particularly in the states of Penang, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur. In Singapore, Leow is a common surname among the Chinese community, especially in areas like Jurong, Ang Mo Kio, and Tampines. Outside of Southeast Asia, Leow can also be found in countries with a significant Chinese diaspora, such as Australia, United States, and Canada. In these countries, individuals with the last name Leow are often descendants of immigrants from Malaysia or Singapore. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Leow reflects the historical migration patterns of the Chinese population in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Variants and spellings of the last name Leow

The last name Leow can be spelled in various ways, including Lowe, Liow, Liaw, Leow, Leo, Lew, and Liew. These variations may arise from different transliterations of the name into English or regional differences in pronunciation. The surname is of Chinese origin and is commonly found in Malaysia, Singapore, and other Chinese diaspora communities around the world. Despite the different spellings, the surname typically retains its original pronunciation, with the "eo" sound being the most common feature. The variations in spelling may also result from the migration and assimilation of Chinese immigrants to different countries, where their names may have been anglicized or adapted to fit local naming conventions.

Famous people with the last name Leow

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Leow is Leow Cheng Lim, a prominent Malaysian businessman and philanthropist known for his contributions to the education and healthcare sectors in the country. Another notable figure is Leow Poh Gin, a Singaporean entrepreneur and founder of the successful construction company, Lee Kim Tah Group. Additionally, Dr. Leow Ju-Lee is a respected medical professional and researcher in the field of dermatology, recognized for her groundbreaking work in skin cancer detection and treatment. These individuals have made significant impacts in their respective fields, showcasing the diverse talents and achievements associated with the surname Leow.

Genealogical research on the last name Leow

The surname Leow is of Chinese origin, with variations such as Liu and Liang. It is believed to be derived from the Chinese character 刘 (Liu), meaning "kill" or "destroy," with various interpretations and historical connections. The Leow surname can be traced back to ancient Chinese dynasties, particularly the Han and Tang dynasties, where it was commonly associated with powerful and influential families. Over time, the surname spread to different regions of China and eventually to other parts of the world through migration and diaspora. Today, individuals with the last name Leow can be found in various countries, with some retaining strong connections to their Chinese heritage and cultural traditions. Genealogical research on the Leow surname can provide insights into family lineages, migrations, and connections to historical events and figures in Chinese history.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "leow"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends