时Shi
Shí
Shi (时) means 'time' or 'season'. It symbolizes the passage of time, opportunity, and the cyclical nature of life. It reflects a sense of timeliness and adaptability.
What does the Chinese surname Shi (Shí) 时 mean?
时 Shi (Shí) is the #485 most common Chinese surname with approximately Under 1 million people. Shi (时) means 'time' or 'season'. It symbolizes the passage of time, opportunity, and the cyclical nature of life. It reflects a sense of timeliness and adaptability.
Population Ranking
#485
Estimated Under 1 million people
Geographic Distribution
Hebei, Shandong, Zhejiang
Five Element Attribute
Earth
stability, patience, and reliability
The ancient totem of 时 clan
白文印 (Yin seal) — 时
Origin & History
The surname originated from the state of Shi during the Spring and Autumn period, a vassal state of Song. Descendants took the state name as their surname.
Geographic Distribution
Hebei, Shandong, Zhejiang
Surname Evolution
The Shi surname has deep roots in Chinese history, tracing back over 2,000 years. Originating from the ancient commandery regions, the Shi clan established itself as a distinguished family during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Through centuries of migration and development, the Shi surname spread across China, with notable concentrations in Shangqiu area, Henan. The clan produced scholars, officials, and military leaders who contributed significantly to Chinese civilization throughout the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Commandery
Liangguo Commandery (梁国) — Modern-day Shangqiu area, Henan Province
Hall Title
报本堂 (Shi Clan)
Ancestral Hall
Shi Clan Ancestral Hall in Liangguo — A traditional clan hall preserving the genealogical records and cultural heritage of the Shi 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 Named Shi
Shi Kefa (史可法) — Ming Dynasty loyalist general (note: surname Shi 史, but 时 is similar)
Shi Naian (施耐庵) — Author of Water Margin (note: surname Shi 施)
Shi Yigong (时毅功) — Modern Chinese biophysicist
Tone Compatibility
Shi (Shí) 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)
Popular Shi Name Combinations
Example Names with Shi
Your Shi Family Legend
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 时 Shi mean in Chinese?
时 Shi (Shí) is the #485 most common Chinese surname. Shi (时) means 'time' or 'season'. It symbolizes the passage of time, opportunity, and the cyclical nature of life. It reflects a sense of timeliness and adaptability.
Where does the 时 Shi surname originate from?
The surname originated from the state of Shi during the Spring and Autumn period, a vassal state of Song. Descendants took the state name as their surname.
Who are some famous people with the surname 时 Shi?
Notable people include Shi Kefa (史可法) — Ming Dynasty loyalist general (note: surname Shi 史, but 时 is similar), Shi Naian (施耐庵) — Author of Water Margin (note: surname Shi 施), Shi Yigong (时毅功) — Modern Chinese biophysicist.
How many people have the surname 时 Shi in China?
The surname Shi is ranked #485 in China with approximately Under 1 million people. Hebei, Shandong, Zhejiang