Popular Chinese Names
Trending & Classic
Discover the most popular Chinese first and last names. See trending names for boys and girls, common surnames, and understand what makes certain names popular in Chinese culture.
Popular Chinese Names
Popular Chinese names reflect cultural trends, social values, and generational preferences. These names gain popularity through various factors including cultural significance, pleasant sound, auspicious meanings, and celebrity influence.
Recent surveys show that modern Chinese parents increasingly prefer names that:
- Have unique character combinations to avoid duplication
- Sound pleasant when pronounced in both Chinese and English
- Carry positive meanings without being overly traditional
- Reflect contemporary values while respecting cultural heritage
The most popular names change with each generation, influenced by historical events, cultural movements, and global trends.
Most Popular Chinese Last Names
King
The most common last name in China, held by over 100 million people
Plum tree
Second most common, with rich historical significance
To stretch
Third most common, originated from ancient bow-makers
Kill/Axe
Royal last name of the Han Dynasty
Ancient state
Most common last name in Southeast Asian Chinese communities
Cultural & Historical Favorites
Tang dynasty poet
Beloved poet whose name evokes artistic talent and romantic imagery
Three Kingdoms warlord
Historical leader admired for strategy and leadership
Legendary general
Symbol of loyalty and martial honor in Chinese culture
Monkey King hero
Iconic Journey to the West figure known worldwide
Strategist extraordinaire
Mastermind from the Three Kingdoms era representing wisdom
Common Classroom Classics
Greatness of the Zhang family
Textbook example name famous for its ubiquity
Fragrant royalty
Widely used feminine name with a gentle sound
Elegant Li family daughter
Popular thanks to sports icons and easy pronunciation
Little bright one
Classic textbook character that many learners adopt
Little red
Companion name to 小明, friendly and familiar
Popular Transliteration Picks
Martin
Phonetic adaptation common among Western learners
Mary
Classic feminine transliteration with timeless appeal
Anna
Simple, elegant choice that stays close to the original name
David
Popular among students and professionals for its familiarity
Modern Trending Baby Names
Joyful and pleasant
Contemporary favorite representing optimism and grace
Cultivated youth
Literary-feeling combination loved by parents born in the 1990s
Catalpa and daylily
Nature imagery that feels refined and modern
Vast universe
Top boy name suggesting ambition and limitless horizons
Stellar radiance
Trendy celestial-inspired choice with soft tones
Catalpa morning light
Fresh and poetic, popular in kindergarten rosters today