Meaning and origin
The last name Zhao originated in China and has deep historical roots. The name Zhao is derived from the ancient Zhou dynasty and is associated with royalty and nobility. Its etymology suggests connections with the titles and positions held by the Zhao clan members, such as prime ministers and regional governors. Over time, the surname Zhao spread across different regions of China and became widely adopted, preserving its significance and prominence in Chinese genealogy.
The longer story
The name has deep historical roots and carries significant cultural significance in Chinese society. The etymology of the surname Zhao is derived from the ancient Chinese character "赵" which denotes wealth or prosperity.
During this period, the surname Zhao flourished and gained prominence among the ruling class and aristocracy. The Zhou dynasty played a crucial role in shaping the Chinese civilization, and the Zhao family contributed significantly to its governance and military affairs.
Due to its long history and widespread usage, the Zhao surname holds immense importance in Chinese culture. It is associated with nobility, power, and an esteemed lineage.
Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.
#1,613
Zhao was the 1,613th most common surname in the 2010 US Census, with 22,301 people, about 7.2 in every 100,000.
Who carries it
Surnames like Zhao
Names it is linked with, then names with the same origin and a similar standing.
Check the sources
- Forebears: where Zhao is found around the world
- The Internet Surname Database: a second opinion on the origin
- US Census Bureau: the 2010 surname figures used here
For a name you are serious about, compare the dictionaries: Reaney and Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames; Hanks, Dictionary of American Family Names.