卢LuSurname
Lú
Lu (卢) originally referred to a type of black millet or a black cooking vessel. It symbolizes simplicity, nourishment, and steadfastness. The surname is associated with military and administrative achievements throughout Chinese history.
Lú
Mainland China · Taiwan
Luk
Guangdong · Hong Kong
Lok
Fujian · Taiwan · SE Asia
Luk
Meizhou · Taiwan · SE Asia
Population Ranking
#43
Estimated Over 4 million people
Position among top 100 Chinese surnames
Geographic Distribution
Henan, Shandong, Sichuan
Five Element Analysis
Water
wisdom, flexibility, and adaptability
Origin & History
The Lu surname has multiple origins. One major branch descended from the Qi (祁) clan, granted the surname by Duke Wen of Jin during the Spring and Autumn period. Another originated from the ancient state of Lu in Shandong, and some came from minority groups like the Xianbei.
Surname Evolution
The Lu surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Lu clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Lu surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Yantai area, Shandong. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Donglai Commandery (东莱郡) — Modern-day Yantai area, Shandong Province
Hall Title
世德堂 (Lu Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Lu Clan Ancestral Hall in Donglai — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Lu 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
忠孝传家，仁德继世 — Loyalty and filial piety pass through the family; benevolence and virtue continue.
Tone Compatibility
Lu (Lú) is a 2nd tone (rising) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
peaceful and secure
vast and auspicious
ambition that soars
Patterns to Avoid
Each digit is a tone (1=level, 2=rising, 3=dipping, 4=falling). The first is the surname tone; the next two are the given name's tones.
Example Names with Lu
Your Lu Family Legend
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What does the surname Lu mean in Chinese?
Lu (卢) originally referred to a type of black millet or a black cooking vessel, symbolizing simplicity, nourishment, and steadfastness. The surname is associated with military and administrative achievements, implying reliability and strength.
Where does the Lu surname originate from?
The Lu surname has multiple origins. One major branch descended from the Qi (祁) clan, granted the surname by the Zhou king. Another branch originated from the Jiang clan of the State of Qi. A third origin is from the Lu clan of the legendary emperor Ku.
Who are some famous people with the surname Lu?
Lu Xun (modern writer, father of modern Chinese literature), Lu Ban (ancient carpenter and engineer, patron deity of builders), Lu You (Song Dynasty poet), Lu Zhengxiang (Chinese diplomat and prime minister).
What given names go well with the surname Lu?
Names that convey strength and simplicity suit Lu. Lu Gang (卢刚, 'firm') or Lu Jian (卢坚, 'strong') reflect steadfastness. Names like Lu Ren (卢仁, 'benevolence') add moral depth. Avoid names that are too ornate or weak-sounding.