窦Dou
Dòu
Dou (窦) means 'hole' or 'cave', but as a surname it is associated with integrity and perseverance. It is less common but has a rich history in Chinese culture.
What does the Chinese surname Dou (Dòu) 窦 mean?
窦 Dou (Dòu) is the #502 most common Chinese surname with approximately Under 1 million people. Dou (窦) means 'hole' or 'cave', but as a surname it is associated with integrity and perseverance. It is less common but has a rich history in Chinese culture.
Population Ranking
#502
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan
Five Element Attribute
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
Origin & History
The Dou surname originated from the ancient state of Dou during the Xia Dynasty. It is also traced to descendants of the legendary ruler Shao Hao, who adopted the surname from a place name.
Surname Evolution
The Dou surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Dou clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Dou surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Dunhuang, Gansu. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Dunhuang Commandery (敦煌郡) — Modern-day Dunhuang, Gansu Province
Hall Title
追远堂 (Dou Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Dou Clan Ancestral Hall in Dunhuang — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Dou 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
诗书传家，礼仪继世 — Poetry and learning pass through the family; courtesy and propriety continue.
Famous People Named Dou
Dou Jiande (窦建德) — Leader of a peasant rebellion in the Sui Dynasty
Dou Xian (窦宪) — Eastern Han Dynasty general and brother of Empress Dou
Dou Tao (窦滔) — Former Qin Dynasty official, husband of the famous poet Su Hui
Example Names with Dou
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 窦 Dou mean in Chinese?
窦 Dou (Dòu) is the #502 most common Chinese surname. Dou (窦) means 'hole' or 'cave', but as a surname it is associated with integrity and perseverance. It is less common but has a rich history in Chinese culture.
Where does the 窦 Dou surname originate from?
The Dou surname originated from the ancient state of Dou during the Xia Dynasty. It is also traced to descendants of the legendary ruler Shao Hao, who adopted the surname from a place name.
Who are some famous people with the surname 窦 Dou?
Notable people include Dou Jiande (窦建德) — Leader of a peasant rebellion in the Sui Dynasty, Dou Xian (窦宪) — Eastern Han Dynasty general and brother of Empress Dou, Dou Tao (窦滔) — Former Qin Dynasty official, husband of the famous poet Su Hui.
How many people have the surname 窦 Dou in China?
The surname Dou is ranked #502 in China with approximately Under 1 million people. Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan