许Xu
Xǔ
Xu (许) originally meant 'to allow' or 'to promise' in ancient Chinese. It carries connotations of trustworthiness, permission, and commitment. The surname is associated with reliability and integrity in Chinese culture.
What does the Chinese surname Xu (Xǔ) 许 mean?
许 Xu (Xǔ) is the #36 most common Chinese surname with approximately Over 5 million people. Xu (许) originally meant 'to allow' or 'to promise' in ancient Chinese. It carries connotations of trustworthiness, permission, and commitment. The surname is associated with reliability and integrity in Chinese culture.
Population Ranking
#36
Estimated Over 5 million people
Geographic Distribution
Sichuan, Zhejiang, Hebei
Five Element Attribute
Metal
strength, justice, and precision
The ancient totem of 许 clan
白文印 (Yin seal) — 许
Origin & History
The Xu surname originated from the ancient state of Xu during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). Descendants of the rulers of this state adopted Xu as their surname. Another branch comes from the Ji (姬) clan of the Zhou royal family.
Geographic Distribution
Sichuan, Zhejiang, Hebei
Surname Evolution
The Xu surname originated from the ancient State of Xu during the Western Zhou Dynasty. The surname spread widely during the Southern migration periods (317–589 CE). The Xu clan produced many notable scholars and officials throughout Chinese history.
Commandery
Gaoyang Commandery (高阳郡) — Modern-day Baoding area, Hebei Province
Hall Title
高阳堂 (Gaoyang Hall)
Ancestral Hall
Xu Clan Ancestral Hall in Gaoyang, Hebei — The traditional ancestral seat of the Xu clan, honoring generations of scholarly achievement.
Clan Motto & Family Tradition
高阳世泽，耕读传家 — The Gaoyang heritage; the tradition of farming and learning.
Famous People Named Xu
Xu Shen (许慎) — Eastern Han Dynasty scholar who compiled the first Chinese dictionary 'Shuowen Jiezi'
Xu Beihong (徐悲鸿) — Modern Chinese painter known for his ink paintings of horses and figures
Xu Guangqi (徐光启) — Ming Dynasty scholar and scientist who collaborated with Jesuit missionaries on scientific works
Tone Compatibility
Xu (Xǔ) is a 3rd tone (dipping) surname. In Chinese naming, balanced tonal patterns create harmonious-sounding names.
Recommended Patterns
- 3-1-2
- 3-2-4
- 3-4-2
Patterns to Avoid
- 3-3-3 (three dips)
- 3-1-1 (abrupt)
Popular Xu Name Combinations
Example Names with Xu
Your Xu Family Legend
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the surname 许 Xu mean in Chinese?
许 Xu (Xǔ) is the #36 most common Chinese surname. Xu (许) originally meant 'to allow' or 'to promise' in ancient Chinese. It carries connotations of trustworthiness, permission, and commitment. The surname is associated with reliability and integrity in Chinese culture.
Where does the 许 Xu surname originate from?
The Xu surname originated from the ancient state of Xu during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). Descendants of the rulers of this state adopted Xu as their surname. Another branch comes from the Ji (姬) clan of the Zhou royal family.
Who are some famous people with the surname 许 Xu?
Notable people include Xu Shen (许慎) — Eastern Han Dynasty scholar who compiled the first Chinese dictionary 'Shuowen Jiezi', Xu Beihong (徐悲鸿) — Modern Chinese painter known for his ink paintings of horses and figures, Xu Guangqi (徐光启) — Ming Dynasty scholar and scientist who collaborated with Jesuit missionaries on scientific works.
How many people have the surname 许 Xu in China?
The surname Xu is ranked #36 in China with approximately Over 5 million people. Sichuan, Zhejiang, Hebei