黎Li
Lí
Li (黎) means 'black' or 'multitude', and is associated with the dawn (as in 黎明, 'daybreak'). It symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity. The surname also conveys a sense of community and abundance.
What does the Chinese surname Li (Lí) 黎 mean?
黎 Li (Lí) is the #2 most common Chinese surname with approximately Over 100 million people. Li (黎) means 'black' or 'multitude', and is associated with the dawn (as in 黎明, 'daybreak'). It symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity. The surname also conveys a sense of community and abundance.
Population Ranking
#2
Estimated Over 100 million people
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Sichuan, Shandong, Guangdong
Five Element Attribute
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
The ancient totem of 黎 clan
朱文印 (Yang seal) — 黎
Origin & History
The Li surname has multiple origins. One major source is the ancient state of Li (黎) during the Shang Dynasty. Another origin is from the Li people, an ethnic group in southern China. Some families adopted Li to honor their ancestors' role in agriculture.
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Sichuan, Shandong, Guangdong
Surname Evolution
The Li surname traces back to Gao Yao, a minister of Emperor Shun (c. 2200 BCE). During the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), the Li clan became the imperial family, making it one of the most prestigious surnames in Chinese history. The Zhao Commandery Li clan was particularly influential, producing emperors, poets, and generals.
Commandery
Longxi Commandery (陇西郡) — Modern-day Lanzhou area, Gansu Province
Hall Title
陇西堂 (Longxi Hall)
Ancestral Hall
Li Clan Ancestral Hall in Longxi, Gansu — Known as the ancestral homeland of the Li surname. The hall preserves genealogical records spanning over 2,000 years and hosts annual clan gatherings during the Qingming Festival.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
以德立身，以学传家 — Establish oneself through virtue; pass down learning through the family.
Famous People Named Li
Li Yuanhong (黎元洪) — President of the Republic of China
Li Dazhao (黎大钊) — Co-founder of the Chinese Communist Party
Li Ming (黎明) — Hong Kong actor and singer
Li Bai (李白) — Tang Dynasty poet known as the 'Immortal of Poetry'
Li Shimin (李世民) — Emperor Taizong of Tang, one of China's greatest emperors
Tone Compatibility
Li (Lí) is a 2nd tone (rising) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
- 2-1-4
- 2-3-4
- 2-4-2
Patterns to Avoid
- 2-2-2 (flat rhythm)
- 2-1-1 (abrupt start)
Example Names with Li
Your Li Family Legend
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 黎 Li mean in Chinese?
黎 Li (Lí) is the #2 most common Chinese surname. Li (黎) means 'black' or 'multitude', and is associated with the dawn (as in 黎明, 'daybreak'). It symbolizes new beginnings and prosperity. The surname also conveys a sense of community and abundance.
Where does the 黎 Li surname originate from?
The Li surname has multiple origins. One major source is the ancient state of Li (黎) during the Shang Dynasty. Another origin is from the Li people, an ethnic group in southern China. Some families adopted Li to honor their ancestors' role in agriculture.
Who are some famous people with the surname 黎 Li?
Notable people include Li Yuanhong (黎元洪) — President of the Republic of China, Li Dazhao (黎大钊) — Co-founder of the Chinese Communist Party, Li Ming (黎明) — Hong Kong actor and singer.
How many people have the surname 黎 Li in China?
The surname Li is ranked #2 in China with approximately Over 100 million people. Henan, Sichuan, Shandong, Guangdong