百里BailiSurname
Bǎilǐ
Baili (百里) literally means 'hundred li' (a Chinese unit of distance). It symbolizes vastness and far-reaching influence, often associated with strategic thinking and leadership.
Bǎilǐ
Mainland China · Taiwan
Population Ranking
#452
Estimated Under 1 million people
Position among top 100 Chinese surnames
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Shandong, Guangdong
Five Element Analysis
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
Origin & History
The Baili surname originated from the ancient state of Yu during the Spring and Autumn period. It derives from the personal name of Baili Xi, a famous prime minister of the Qin state, whose descendants adopted his given name as their surname.
Surname Evolution
The Baili surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Baili clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Baili 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 (Baili Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Baili Clan Ancestral Hall in Zhongshan — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Baili 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.
Tone Compatibility
Baili (Bǎilǐ) is a 3rd tone (dipping) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
peaceful and bright
bright and grand
ambition that soars
Patterns to Avoid
Each digit is a tone (1=level, 2=rising, 3=dipping, 4=falling). The first is the surname tone; the next two are the given name's tones.
Example Names with Baili
Your Baili Family Legend
Popular Chinese Name Collections
Want Your Own Unique Chinese Name?
Our engine creates personalized names based on your English name and preferred style.
Try the Name Generator→Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Baili mean in Chinese?
Baili (百里) literally means 'hundred li' (a Chinese unit of distance, about 50 km). It symbolizes vastness, far-reaching influence, and strategic thinking. The name evokes a sense of expansive territory and leadership, often associated with the famous strategist Baili Xi. It suggests someone with broad vision and enduring impact.
Where does the Baili surname originate from?
The Baili surname originated from the ancient state of Yu during the Spring and Autumn period. It derives from the given name of Baili Xi (百里奚), a renowned prime minister of the state of Qin. His descendants adopted Baili as their surname. The surname is rare but historically significant, associated with wisdom and statesmanship.
Who are some famous people with the surname Baili?
Notable figures include Baili Xi (百里奚), the Spring and Autumn period prime minister who helped Qin become a major power; Baili Meng (百里孟), a Han Dynasty scholar; and Baili Shou (百里守), a Tang Dynasty general. The surname is also remembered in the idiom 'Baili Xi's wisdom'.
What given names go well with the surname Baili?
Given names for Baili should reflect its expansive meaning. Names like Hong (宏, 'vast'), Yuan (远, 'distant'), or Da (大, 'great') emphasize breadth. For a strategic touch, names like Zhi (智, 'wisdom') or Lue (略, 'strategy') work well. Avoid names that are too narrow or localized to maintain the surname's grand scale.