GeSurname
Gě
Ge (葛) means 'kudzu vine', a hardy plant symbolizing resilience and adaptability. It is a common surname in China, especially in the northern regions.
Population Ranking
#505
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Shandong, Sichuan, Jiangsu

The ancient totem of 葛 clan
Yinwen seal — 葛
Five Element Analysis
Earth
stability, patience, and reliability
Origin & History
The Ge surname has multiple origins. One major source is from the state of Ge during the Xia Dynasty. Another origin is from a fief named Ge granted to descendants of the legendary ruler Yu the Great.
Surname Evolution
The Ge surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Ge clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Ge surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Nanyang, Henan. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Nanyang Commandery (南阳郡) — Modern-day Nanyang, Henan Province
Hall Title
崇本堂 (Ge Clan)
Ancestral Hall

Ge Clan Ancestral Hall in Nanyang — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Ge 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
积善传家,诗礼继世 — Accumulating goodness passes through the family; poetry and ritual continue.
Famous People with Surname Ge
Ge Hong (葛洪) — Eastern Jin Dynasty alchemist and Taoist philosopher
Ge You (葛优) — Renowned Chinese actor
Ge Fei (葛菲) — Olympic badminton gold medalist
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Ge mean?
The surname Ge (Gě) means: Ge (葛) means 'kudzu vine', a hardy plant symbolizing resilience and adaptability. It is a common surname in China, especially in the northern regions.
Where does the Ge surname originate from?
The Ge surname has a rich history dating back to ancient China. The Ge surname has multiple origins. One major source is from the state of Ge during the Xia Dynasty. Another origin is from a fief named Ge granted to descendants of the legendary ruler Yu the Great.
How common is the Ge surname?
The Ge surname is ranked #505 among Chinese surnames, with an estimated population of Under 1 million people.
Who are famous people with the Ge surname?
Notable people with the Ge surname include Ge Hong (葛洪) — Eastern Jin Dynasty alchemist and Taoist philosopher, Ge You (葛优) — Renowned Chinese actor, Ge Fei (葛菲) — Olympic badminton gold medalist.
What element is associated with the Ge surname?
The Ge surname is associated with the Earth element in Chinese Five Element theory.
Tone Compatibility
Ge (Gě) 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 Ge
Your Ge Family Legend
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