HuSurname
Hù
Hu (扈) originally referred to a type of bamboo screen or a guard, symbolizing protection and loyalty. It is a rare surname with a strong historical connection to ancient Chinese states.
Population Ranking
#213
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Zhejiang, Shandong, Henan

The ancient totem of 扈 clan
Yinwen seal — 扈
Five Element Analysis
Water
wisdom, flexibility, and adaptability
Origin & History
The Hu surname originated from the Hu state during the Xia Dynasty (c. 2070–1600 BCE). Descendants of the Hu royal family adopted the state name as their surname. Another source traces it to the Zhou Dynasty, where a fief named Hu was granted to a noble.
Surname Evolution
The Hu surname originated from the State of Hu during the Zhou Dynasty. After the state was annexed, its people adopted Hu as their surname. The surname is especially common in Anhui, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces.
Commandery
Anding Commandery (安定郡) — Modern-day Dingxi area, Gansu Province
Hall Title
安定堂 (Anding Hall)
Ancestral Hall

Hu Clan Ancestral Hall in Anding, Gansu — The traditional ancestral seat, preserving genealogical records spanning over 1,500 years.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
安定世泽,淮阳家声 — The Anding heritage; the Huaiyang family reputation.
Famous People with Surname Hu
Hu Zheng (扈正) — Ming Dynasty scholar and official
Hu Shizhong (扈世忠) — Tang Dynasty general
Hu Tianyou (扈天佑) — Modern Chinese painter
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname Hu mean?
The surname Hu (Hù) means: Hu (扈) originally referred to a type of bamboo screen or a guard, symbolizing protection and loyalty. It is a rare surname with a strong historical connection to ancient Chinese states.
Where does the Hu surname originate from?
The Hu surname has a rich history dating back to ancient China. The Hu surname originated from the Hu state during the Xia Dynasty (c. 2070–1600 BCE). Descendants of the Hu royal family adopted the state name as their surname. Another source traces it to the Zhou Dynasty, where a fief named Hu was granted to a noble.
How common is the Hu surname?
The Hu surname is ranked #213 among Chinese surnames, with an estimated population of Under 1 million people.
Who are famous people with the Hu surname?
Notable people with the Hu surname include Hu Zheng (扈正) — Ming Dynasty scholar and official, Hu Shizhong (扈世忠) — Tang Dynasty general, Hu Tianyou (扈天佑) — Modern Chinese painter.
What element is associated with the Hu surname?
The Hu surname is associated with the Water element in Chinese Five Element theory.
Tone Compatibility
Hu (Hù) 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 Hu
Your Hu Family Legend
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