chǔ 褚
百家姓 · Bai Jia Xing
Surname Origin
The origin of the surname "Chu" is as follows: 1. It originated from a place name. According to "Records of the Administrative Divisions in the Later Han Dynasty", there was a place called "Chu Clan Gathering" in Luoyang. "Search for the Origins of Surnames" states that there was an ancient place named Chu, and those who lived there took it as their surname. 2. It originated from an official title. According to "General Annals of the Clans - Originating from Official Titles" in "Comprehensive Records", it originally came from Duke Gong of Song, a descendant of the Yin (Shang) Dynasty. His son Duan was enfeoffed in Chu. Because of his admirable virtues, he was called "Chu Shi" and thus the surname was formed. "Chu Shi" was an official in charge of the market, also known as the "Market Superintendent". During the Spring and Autumn Period, the states of Song, Wei, and Zheng all had the position of "Chu Shi". Those who served as "Chu Shi" for generations took the official title as their surname, which was later simplified to "Chu".
Famous Story
Chu Suiliang (596–658), styled Dengshan, was a calligrapher of the early Tang Dynasty from Qiantang (now Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province). He was well-versed in literature and history and proficient in regular and official scripts. He learned calligraphy from Zhong You and Wang Xizhi and developed an ancient, elegant, and slender style. During the reign of Emperor Taizong, he successively served as the Remonstrant Official and was also in charge of keeping the court records. Later, he and Chang Sun Wuji received the imperial edict to assist the crown prince. After Emperor Gaozong ascended the throne, he was promoted to the Left Servant of the Shangshu Province and was enfeoffed as the Duke of Henan Commandery. When the emperor intended to depose the queen and establish Wu Zetian as the queen, Chu Suiliang strongly remonstrated, but his advice was not accepted. Then he begged to return to his hometown. He was repeatedly demoted and finally became the governor of Aizhou, where he died of grief and indignation.
Random Names With "褚"
Beautiful and kind, possessing both virtue and talent
Fragrant and rich in aroma, with both virtue and artistry.
The inheritance of descendants endures, and the reproduction never ceases.
Full of vitality and thriving vigorously
As passionate as a flame, upright and honest.
Strong of body and firm of will.
As fervent as a flame, resplendent and radiant.
Handsome in appearance and outstanding in both talent and virtue.