Zaifu
Zǎifù
宰父 (Zǎifù) is a rare compound surname meaning 'butcher father' or 'master father'. It reflects an ancient occupation-based surname, possibly related to sacrificial or slaughter duties in rituals.
What does the Chinese surname Zaifu (Zǎifù) mean?
Zaifu (Zǎifù) is the #447 most common Chinese surname with approximately Under 1 million people. 宰父 (Zǎifù) is a rare compound surname meaning 'butcher father' or 'master father'. It reflects an ancient occupation-based surname, possibly related to sacrificial or slaughter duties in rituals.
Population Ranking
#447
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Shandong, Zhejiang
Five Element Attribute
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
Origin & History
The surname originates from the Zhou Dynasty, where the position of 'Zaifu' was an official in charge of slaughtering animals for sacrifices. Descendants adopted the title as their surname. It is extremely rare today.
Surname Evolution
The Zaifu surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Zaifu clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Zaifu 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 (Zaifu Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Zaifu Clan Ancestral Hall in Jinan — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Zaifu 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 Zaifu
Zaifu Hei (宰父黑) — A disciple of Confucius mentioned in the Analects
Zaifu Zong (宰父宗) — A Song Dynasty scholar-official
Zaifu Ming (宰父明) — A Ming Dynasty calligrapher
Example Names with Zaifu
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Zaifu mean in Chinese?
Zaifu (Zǎifù) is the #447 most common Chinese surname. 宰父 (Zǎifù) is a rare compound surname meaning 'butcher father' or 'master father'. It reflects an ancient occupation-based surname, possibly related to sacrificial or slaughter duties in rituals.
Where does the Zaifu surname originate from?
The surname originates from the Zhou Dynasty, where the position of 'Zaifu' was an official in charge of slaughtering animals for sacrifices. Descendants adopted the title as their surname. It is extremely rare today.
Who are some famous people with the surname Zaifu?
Notable people include Zaifu Hei (宰父黑) — A disciple of Confucius mentioned in the Analects, Zaifu Zong (宰父宗) — A Song Dynasty scholar-official, Zaifu Ming (宰父明) — A Ming Dynasty calligrapher.
How many people have the surname Zaifu in China?
The surname Zaifu is ranked #447 in China with approximately Under 1 million people. Henan, Shandong, Zhejiang