BuSurname
Bǔ
Bu (卜) means 'divination' and refers to the ancient practice of oracle bone divination. It symbolizes wisdom and foresight. The surname is rare.
Population Ranking
#491
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Jiangsu, Sichuan, Guangdong
The ancient totem of 卜 clan
Yinwen seal — 卜
Five Element Analysis
Metal
strength, justice, and precision
Origin & History
The Bu surname originated from diviners (卜人) in ancient China, who were officials responsible for divination. Some descendants of the Shang Dynasty royal family also adopted the surname.
Surname Evolution
The Bu surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Bu clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Bu surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Yantai area, Shandong. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Donglai Commandery (东莱郡) — Modern-day Yantai area, Shandong Province
Hall Title
世德堂 (Bu Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Bu Clan Ancestral Hall in Donglai — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Bu 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 with Surname Bu
Bu Shang (卜商) — disciple of Confucius, known as Zixia
Bu Wan (卜万) — Ming Dynasty painter
Bu Yungang (卜云刚) — modern Chinese mathematician
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Bu mean?
The surname Bu (Bǔ) means: Bu (卜) means 'divination' and refers to the ancient practice of oracle bone divination. It symbolizes wisdom and foresight. The surname is rare.
Where does the Bu surname originate from?
The Bu surname has a rich history dating back to ancient China. The Bu surname originated from diviners (卜人) in ancient China, who were officials responsible for divination. Some descendants of the Shang Dynasty royal family also adopted the surname.
How common is the Bu surname?
The Bu surname is ranked #491 among Chinese surnames, with an estimated population of Under 1 million people.
Who are famous people with the Bu surname?
Notable people with the Bu surname include Bu Shang (卜商) — disciple of Confucius, known as Zixia, Bu Wan (卜万) — Ming Dynasty painter, Bu Yungang (卜云刚) — modern Chinese mathematician.
What element is associated with the Bu surname?
The Bu surname is associated with the Metal element in Chinese Five Element theory.
Tone Compatibility
Bu (Bǔ) is a 3rd tone (dipping) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
- 3-1-2
- 3-2-4
- 3-4-2
Patterns to Avoid
- 3-3-3 (three dips)
- 3-1-1 (abrupt)
Example Names with Bu
Your Bu Family Legend
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