Mao
Máo
Mao (毛) means 'hair' or 'fur' and symbolizes detail, refinement, and attention to small things. It represents meticulousness, precision, and thoroughness. The character also appears in philosophical texts describing subtle aspects of nature.
Population Ranking
#75
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Sichuan, Henan, Guangdong
Five Element Attribute
Earth
stability, patience, and reliability
Origin & History
The Mao surname originated from the Ji (姬) clan during the Western Zhou Dynasty. It comes from the Mao state granted to Shu Zheng, a son of King Wen of Zhou. The name derives from the place name Mao (毛) in present-day Henan province.
Surname Evolution
The Mao surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Mao clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Mao surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Yantai area, Shandong. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Donglai Commandery (东莱郡) — Modern-day Yantai area, Shandong Province
Hall Title
世德堂 (Mao Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Mao Clan Ancestral Hall in Donglai — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Mao family. The hall serves as a gathering place for clan descendants during traditional festivals such as Qingming and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
积善传家，诗礼继世 — Accumulating goodness passes through the family; poetry and ritual continue.
Famous People Named Mao
Mao Zedong (毛泽东) — Founding father of the People's Republic of China
Mao Xiang (冒襄) — Ming Dynasty scholar and poet
Mao Yisheng (茅以升) — Renowned Chinese bridge engineer and scientist