毛MaoSurname
Máo
Mao (毛) means 'hair' or 'fur' and symbolizes detail, refinement, and attention to small things. It represents meticulousness, precision, and thoroughness. The character also appears in philosophical texts describing subtle aspects of nature.
Máo
Mainland China · Taiwan
Population Ranking
#75
Estimated Under 1 million people
Position among top 100 Chinese surnames
Geographic Distribution
Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan
Five Element Analysis
Earth
stability, patience, and reliability
Origin & History
The Mao surname originated from the Ji (姬) clan during the Western Zhou Dynasty. It comes from the Mao state granted to Shu Zheng, a son of King Wen of Zhou. The name derives from the place name Mao (毛) in present-day Henan province.
Surname Evolution
The Mao surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Mao clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Mao 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 (Mao Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Mao Clan Ancestral Hall in Donglai — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Mao 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 Mao
Mao Zedong (毛泽东) — Founding father of the People's Republic of China
Tone Compatibility
Mao (Máo) 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 Mao
Your Mao Family Legend
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What does the surname Mao mean in Chinese?
The surname Mao (毛) means 'hair' or 'fur,' symbolizing detail, refinement, and attention to small things. The character 毛 depicts hair or feathers, representing meticulousness and precision. In philosophical texts, it appears in discussions of subtle aspects of nature. The surname conveys a sense of thoroughness and care, suggesting a person who pays attention to the finest details.
Where does the Mao surname originate from?
The Mao surname originated from the Ji (姬) clan during the Western Zhou Dynasty. It comes from the state of Mao, granted to a son of King Wen of Zhou. The state was located in present-day Henan province. After the state was annexed, its people adopted Mao as their surname. Another origin is from the Mao clan of the Xiongnu tribe. The surname is historically associated with the Zhou royal family.
Who are some famous people with the surname Mao?
1. Mao Zedong (毛泽东, 1893–1976): The founding father of the People's Republic of China, a revolutionary and political leader. 2. Mao Dun (茅盾, 1896–1981): A renowned writer and literary critic, author of 'Midnight.' 3. Mao Amin (毛阿敏, b. 1963): A famous singer, known for her powerful voice and patriotic songs.
What given names go well with the surname Mao?
Mao, meaning 'hair' or 'detail,' pairs well with names that emphasize precision, elegance, or natural beauty. Consider Mao Jie (洁, 'pure'), Mao Xiu (秀, 'elegant'), or Mao Wen (文, 'literary'). These names balance the surname's subtle connotation with refined qualities, creating a name that is both delicate and sophisticated.