裴PeiSurname
Péi
Pei (裴) originally meant 'long robe' but is now a common surname symbolizing elegance and refinement. It has a long history and is associated with scholarly families.
Péi
Mainland China · Taiwan
Population Ranking
#127
Estimated Under 1 million people
Position among top 100 Chinese surnames
Geographic Distribution
Hebei, Zhejiang, Sichuan
Five Element Analysis
Wood
growth, vitality, and kindness
Origin & History
The Pei surname originated from the ancient state of Pei (裴) during the Spring and Autumn period. It also comes from the noble family of the Qin Dynasty. Some branches trace to the surname of a fief in modern-day Shanxi.
Surname Evolution
The Pei surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Pei clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Pei surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Jinan, Shandong. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Jinan Commandery (济南郡) — Modern-day Jinan, Shandong Province
Hall Title
孝思堂 (Pei Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Pei Clan Ancestral Hall in Jinan — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Pei 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
诗书传家，礼仪继世 — Poetry and learning pass through the family; courtesy and propriety continue.
Famous People with Surname Pei
Pei Ju (裴矩) — Sui and Tang Dynasty official and diplomat
Pei Xiu (裴秀) — Jin Dynasty cartographer and minister
Pei Yanling (裴艳玲) — Chinese Peking opera performer
Tone Compatibility
Pei (Péi) 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 Pei
Your Pei Family Legend
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What does the surname Pei mean in Chinese?
The surname Pei (裴) originally meant 'long robe,' symbolizing elegance and refinement. The character combines 衣 (clothing) and 非 (wrong), but historically referred to a flowing garment worn by scholars. This conveys a sense of cultural sophistication and scholarly heritage, reflecting the family's association with literary pursuits and officialdom in ancient China.
Where does the Pei surname originate from?
The Pei surname originated from the ancient state of Pei (裴) during the Spring and Autumn period, located in present-day Shanxi Province. It is also derived from the Zhou dynasty official title 'Pei Ren' (裴人), meaning 'robe maker.' Another branch traces to the royal family of the Qin state, who adopted the surname after the state's fall. The Pei clan later flourished in Hedong (modern Shanxi).
Who are some famous people with the surname Pei?
1. Pei Xiu (224-271), cartographer and official of the Jin Dynasty, known for creating the first Chinese grid map. 2. Pei Du (765-839), chancellor of the Tang Dynasty who suppressed rebellions. 3. Pei Yanling (born 1953), Chinese actress and film director. 4. Pei Ju (547-627), Sui and Tang dynasty official and geographer.
What given names go well with the surname Pei?
Pei's elegant meaning pairs well with names that suggest intelligence or nature. Consider Pei Yu (玉, 'jade'), Pei Xuan (轩, 'lofty'), or Pei Shuo (硕, 'great'). Avoid overly common names to maintain the surname's refined aura. Names with soft consonants like 'L' or 'X' complement Pei's flowing sound.