厉Li
Lì
Li (厉) means strict, severe, or fierce, and also refers to a grindstone. As a surname, it symbolizes discipline and strength. It is an uncommon surname with ancient origins.
What does the Chinese surname Li (Lì) 厉 mean?
厉 Li (Lì) is the #2 most common Chinese surname with approximately Over 100 million people. Li (厉) means strict, severe, or fierce, and also refers to a grindstone. As a surname, it symbolizes discipline and strength. It is an uncommon surname with ancient origins.
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 厉 clan
朱文印 (Yang seal) — 厉
Origin & History
The Li surname originated from the state of Li during the Zhou Dynasty, which was located in present-day Henan province. Another origin is from the posthumous title of a ruler, such as King Li of Zhou. Some descendants of the Li state adopted the name as their surname.
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 Feng (厉锋) — Tang Dynasty general
Li Yining (厉以宁) — Modern Chinese economist
Li Guohao (厉国豪) — Contemporary artist
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 (Lì) 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 Li
Your Li Family Legend
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 厉 Li mean in Chinese?
厉 Li (Lì) is the #2 most common Chinese surname. Li (厉) means strict, severe, or fierce, and also refers to a grindstone. As a surname, it symbolizes discipline and strength. It is an uncommon surname with ancient origins.
Where does the 厉 Li surname originate from?
The Li surname originated from the state of Li during the Zhou Dynasty, which was located in present-day Henan province. Another origin is from the posthumous title of a ruler, such as King Li of Zhou. Some descendants of the Li state adopted the name as their surname.
Who are some famous people with the surname 厉 Li?
Notable people include Li Feng (厉锋) — Tang Dynasty general, Li Yining (厉以宁) — Modern Chinese economist, Li Guohao (厉国豪) — Contemporary artist.
How many people have the surname 厉 Li in China?
The surname Li is ranked #2 in China with approximately Over 100 million people. Henan, Sichuan, Shandong, Guangdong