麦Mai
Mài
Mai (麦) means 'wheat' or 'barley'. It symbolizes agriculture, harvest, and prosperity. The surname reflects the importance of farming in Chinese culture.
What does the Chinese surname Mai (Mài) 麦 mean?
麦 Mai (Mài) is the #159 most common Chinese surname with approximately Under 1 million people. Mai (麦) means 'wheat' or 'barley'. It symbolizes agriculture, harvest, and prosperity. The surname reflects the importance of farming in Chinese culture.
Population Ranking
#159
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Zhejiang, Shandong, Sichuan
Five Element Attribute
Fire
passion, energy, and leadership
Origin & History
The Mai surname originated from the ancient state of Mai during the Spring and Autumn period. It is also adopted by some families from the Han Chinese and ethnic minorities in southern China, particularly in Guangdong.
Surname Evolution
The Mai surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Mai clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Mai surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Jinan, Shandong. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Jinan Commandery (济南郡) — Modern-day Jinan, Shandong Province
Hall Title
孝思堂 (Mai Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Mai Clan Ancestral Hall in Jinan — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Mai 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
勤俭传家，耕读继世 — Diligence and thrift pass through the family; farming and learning continue.
Famous People Named Mai
Mai Jia (麦家) — Award-winning contemporary novelist, author of 'Decoded'
Mai Zhaoming (麦兆明) — Hong Kong film director and screenwriter
Mai Weifu (麦伟夫) — Chinese footballer who played for the national team
Example Names with Mai
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 麦 Mai mean in Chinese?
麦 Mai (Mài) is the #159 most common Chinese surname. Mai (麦) means 'wheat' or 'barley'. It symbolizes agriculture, harvest, and prosperity. The surname reflects the importance of farming in Chinese culture.
Where does the 麦 Mai surname originate from?
The Mai surname originated from the ancient state of Mai during the Spring and Autumn period. It is also adopted by some families from the Han Chinese and ethnic minorities in southern China, particularly in Guangdong.
Who are some famous people with the surname 麦 Mai?
Notable people include Mai Jia (麦家) — Award-winning contemporary novelist, author of 'Decoded', Mai Zhaoming (麦兆明) — Hong Kong film director and screenwriter, Mai Weifu (麦伟夫) — Chinese footballer who played for the national team.
How many people have the surname 麦 Mai in China?
The surname Mai is ranked #159 in China with approximately Under 1 million people. Zhejiang, Shandong, Sichuan