Last Name Xu

Learn more about the origin of the last name Xu

The meaning and origin of the last name Xu

The surname Xu has its origins in China and is one of the most common surnames in the country. It is derived from the ancient Xu state that existed during the Zhou dynasty. The character Xu can have multiple meanings in Chinese, including "emptiness" or "void," "distant" or "remote," and "plain" or "unadorned." Individuals with the surname Xu are often associated with characteristics such as intelligence, diligence, and creativity. The Xu family name is thought to have originated from the descendants of the ancient Chinese emperor Huang Di, making it a prestigious and noble surname in Chinese culture. Today, Xu is widely used in China and among the Chinese diaspora around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Xu

Xu is a common Chinese surname that is widely distributed in China. It is particularly prevalent in the eastern regions of the country, such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces. In addition, Xu can also be found in other parts of China, including the northern regions like Shaanxi and Henan provinces, as well as the southern regions like Guangdong and Fujian provinces. Outside of China, Xu can also be found in countries with significant Chinese immigrant populations, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States. Due to the vast population of China and the diaspora of Chinese people around the world, Xu is one of the most common surnames globally.

Variants and spellings of the last name Xu

The last name Xu, a common surname in Chinese culture, has several variations and spellings. Some of the alternative spellings include Hsu, Hsueh, and Hui. These variations may be due to the transliteration of Chinese characters into different languages or dialects. In Taiwan, the surname is often spelled as Hsu, while in Mainland China, it is typically written as Xu. In some cases, the surname may even be spelled as Shu or Chu depending on regional differences or personal preferences. Regardless of the spelling, the last name Xu remains a prominent and longstanding surname within Chinese-speaking communities around the world.

Famous people with the last name Xu

Some of the most famous people with the last name Xu include Chinese actress Xu Jinglei, known for her roles in films such as "My Father and I" and "Letter from an Unknown Woman." Another well-known figure is Chinese business magnate and philanthropist Xu Jiayin, the founder of Evergrande Group, one of the largest real estate developers in China. Additionally, Xu Beihong was a renowned Chinese painter known for his contributions to modern Chinese art, blending traditional Chinese techniques with Western styles. Xu Bing is another notable figure in the art world, known for his innovative and thought-provoking works that often explore themes of communication and language. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on Chinese culture and society.

Genealogical research on the last name Xu

The surname Xu is a Chinese surname that can be traced back to ancient times. It is a common surname in China and is ranked as the 17th most common surname in the country. The Xu surname originated from the descendants of the king of the State of Chen during the Zhou dynasty. The Xu clan has a long and prestigious history, with many members playing important roles in Chinese history. The genealogical research on the Xu surname has revealed various branches of the family tree, with some branches tracing their roots back to influential scholars, military generals, and government officials. Overall, the Xu surname is associated with intelligence, leadership, and success in various fields throughout Chinese history.