夔Kui
Kuí
Kui (夔) is a rare and ancient surname, originally referring to a mythical one-legged beast or a minister of music in legend. It carries a sense of antiquity and uniqueness.
What does the Chinese surname Kui (Kuí) 夔 mean?
夔 Kui (Kuí) is the #236 most common Chinese surname with approximately Under 1 million people. Kui (夔) is a rare and ancient surname, originally referring to a mythical one-legged beast or a minister of music in legend. It carries a sense of antiquity and uniqueness.
Population Ranking
#236
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Shandong, Guangdong, Henan
Five Element Attribute
Metal
strength, justice, and precision
Origin & History
The Kui surname is derived from the legendary figure Kui, a music official under Emperor Shun. Some sources also trace it to the state of Kui during the Xia Dynasty.
Surname Evolution
The Kui surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Kui clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Kui surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Baoding area, Hebei. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Zhongshan Commandery (中山郡) — Modern-day Baoding area, Hebei Province
Hall Title
永思堂 (Kui Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Kui Clan Ancestral Hall in Zhongshan — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Kui 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
耕读传家，忠厚继世 — Farming and learning pass through the family; loyalty and kindness continue.
Famous People Named Kui
Kui Yuzhu (夔玉柱) — Ancient musician and theorist
Kui Wen (夔文) — Tang Dynasty poet (Note: historical figure, but records are sparse)
Kui Zhong (夔中) — Modern Chinese historian specializing in ancient music
Example Names with Kui
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 夔 Kui mean in Chinese?
夔 Kui (Kuí) is the #236 most common Chinese surname. Kui (夔) is a rare and ancient surname, originally referring to a mythical one-legged beast or a minister of music in legend. It carries a sense of antiquity and uniqueness.
Where does the 夔 Kui surname originate from?
The Kui surname is derived from the legendary figure Kui, a music official under Emperor Shun. Some sources also trace it to the state of Kui during the Xia Dynasty.
Who are some famous people with the surname 夔 Kui?
Notable people include Kui Yuzhu (夔玉柱) — Ancient musician and theorist, Kui Wen (夔文) — Tang Dynasty poet (Note: historical figure, but records are sparse), Kui Zhong (夔中) — Modern Chinese historian specializing in ancient music.
How many people have the surname 夔 Kui in China?
The surname Kui is ranked #236 in China with approximately Under 1 million people. Shandong, Guangdong, Henan