GaoSurname
Gào
Gao (郜) is a rare surname derived from a place name. It symbolizes a connection to ancient nobility and a sense of heritage. The character itself is exclusive to the surname.
Population Ranking
#176
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Guangdong, Jiangsu, Shandong

The ancient totem of 郜 clan
Yinwen seal — 郜
Five Element Analysis
Metal
strength, justice, and precision
Origin & History
The Gao surname originated from the state of Gao during the Zhou Dynasty. The state was granted to a descendant of the Zhou king, and later the name was adopted as a surname.
Surname Evolution
The Gao surname originated from the State of Qi during the Spring and Autumn period. Gao Xi, a noble of Qi, was the first known bearer. The surname became widespread during the Northern Wei Dynasty and remains common across northern China.
Commandery
Bohai Commandery (渤海郡) — Modern-day Cangzhou area, Hebei Province
Hall Title
渤海堂 (Bohai Hall)
Ancestral Hall

Gao Clan Ancestral Hall in Bohai, Hebei — Honoring the ancient Gao clan nobility of the Qi State. The hall features stone inscriptions from the Han Dynasty.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
渤海世泽,齐国家风 — The Bohai heritage; the Qi State family tradition.
Famous People with Surname Gao
Gao Yun (郜云) — Tang Dynasty poet
Gao Lin (郜林) — Chinese footballer
Gao Yu (郜煜) — Qing Dynasty scholar
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Gao mean?
The surname Gao (Gào) means: Gao (郜) is a rare surname derived from a place name. It symbolizes a connection to ancient nobility and a sense of heritage. The character itself is exclusive to the surname.
Where does the Gao surname originate from?
The Gao surname has a rich history dating back to ancient China. The Gao surname originated from the state of Gao during the Zhou Dynasty. The state was granted to a descendant of the Zhou king, and later the name was adopted as a surname.
How common is the Gao surname?
The Gao surname is ranked #176 among Chinese surnames, with an estimated population of Under 1 million people.
Who are famous people with the Gao surname?
Notable people with the Gao surname include Gao Yun (郜云) — Tang Dynasty poet, Gao Lin (郜林) — Chinese footballer, Gao Yu (郜煜) — Qing Dynasty scholar.
What element is associated with the Gao surname?
The Gao surname is associated with the Metal element in Chinese Five Element theory.
Tone Compatibility
Gao (Gào) is a 4th tone (falling) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
- 4-1-2
- 4-2-1
- 4-3-2
Patterns to Avoid
- 4-4-4 (too forceful)
- 4-1-4 (jerky)
Example Names with Gao
Your Gao Family Legend
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