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Vietnam Surnames

Surnames (or family names) are hereditary and are often common to all members of a family.

Occupational surnames are derived from an occupation. Examples include Taylor, Smith, and Baker.

Toponymic surnames are derived from a place. Examples include Ayers (a person from Ayers, Scotland) and Bach (German for a person who lives near a stream).

Religious surnames are derived directly or indirectly from religious texts or traditions. Examples include Christian biblical names, Hebrew names from the Torah, and Muslim names from the Quran.

Nickname derived surnames are those based upon appearance, temperament, or personality. An example is the German surname Schwarzkopf (in German, schwarz=black, Kopf= head) meaning a person with dark hair.

Ornamental surnames are those that were adopted or forced upon individuals (and families) under political pressure.

Patronymic surnames are derived from the given name of a male ancestor. An example is the English patronymic surname Peterson, meaning son of Peter.

Female patronymic surnames (also known as female possessive suffix surnames) are a female form of a patronymic surname, most typically a patronymic surname with a feminine suffix added. For example, in Russian, the wife of Mikhail Gorbachev is Raisa Gorbachova, -ev is replaced with ova.

Matronymic surnames are derived from the given name of a female ancestor. An example is the English matronymic surname Tiffany.

Popular Surnames (Family) in Vietnam

Rank Name Meaning Distribution
1 Nguyen

Nguyen is the most common surname in Vietnam, derived from a ruling dynasty that originated in China. It signifies historical connections to nobility, often meaning "musical instrument."

0
92 Dang

Dang signifies "light" or "bright," often associated with clarity and guidance. It implies leadership and vision.

101,550
15 Do

Do has its roots in a Chinese character meaning "to cross" or "ferry." It typically represents a historical lineage with connections to trade.

1,025,240
91 Lu

Lu originates from a Chinese character meaning "road" or "path." It reflects a journey or significant transition.

103,140
90 Tai

Tai means "talent" or "ability," symbolizing a person with great skill and intelligence.

104,332
89 Nghiem

Nghiem translates to "serious" or "strict," often implying discipline or precision. It reflects a person who embodies responsibility and diligence.

105,127
87 Duy

Duy means "only" or "unique," representing someone who stands out or has distinctive qualities.

107,114
88 Ba

Ba means "third" or "father," often used to denote a familial position. It signifies authority and respect.

107,114
14 Ha

Ha originates from a Chinese character meaning "river," reflecting geographical or ancestral ties to a river region.

1,071,940
13 Duong

Duong traces its roots to a Chinese character meaning "poplar tree" or "sun." 

1,075,910
86 Hoa

Hoa translates to "flower" or "blossom," symbolizing growth and beauty. It conveys elegance and a nurturing nature.

110,890
85 Thao

Thao signifies "kind" or "gentle," reflecting a person with compassionate and understanding qualities.

111,288
84 Quy

Quy means "precious" or "valuable," often implying someone who is cherished or respected.

113,871
82 Dam

Dam can mean "pond" or "deep," representing depth and calmness. It reflects someone with inner tranquility and wisdom.

115,660
83 Bach

Bach translates to "white" or "pure," representing purity and simplicity. It symbolizes a person with a noble character.

115,660
81 Tang

Tang is linked to the Chinese character for "to give" or "reward." It reflects generosity and kindness.

115,859
12 Ngo

Ngo is derived from the Chinese surname Wu, meaning "fine" or "majestic." It often signifies someone with a noble lineage.

1,180,050
80 Han

Han may have various meanings, often associated with the Chinese character for "limit" or "restrain." It could convey someone who embodies modesty or moderation.

118,045
79 Xuan

Xuan means "spring," symbolizing renewal and growth. It reflects someone who brings joy and new beginnings.

119,436
78 Viet

Viet signifies someone from Vietnam and often conveys patriotism. It implies cultural pride and national identity.

120,429
77 Trung

Trung means "loyal" or "faithful." It reflects a person who embodies steadfast loyalty and reliability.

122,218
76 Ng

Ng is a variation of the surname Ngo. It originates from the Chinese surname Wu, signifying a prestigious lineage.

123,410
11 Truong

Truong comes from a Chinese character meaning "chief" or "leader," symbolizing someone who holds a high-ranking position.

1,281,800
75 Hue

Hue is often associated with beauty, especially of colors. It implies someone who embodies elegance and radiance.

129,173
74 Duc

Duc means "virtue" or "morality," symbolizing a person of high ethical standards. It reflects integrity and honor.

129,372
73 Trieu

Trieu means "trillion" or "summon." Historically, it has been linked to royalty and high-ranking positions.

130,962
72 Tong

Tong originates from a Chinese character meaning "general" or "overall." It reflects someone who holds authority or supervises others.

131,161
10 Dang

Dang has Chinese origins, meaning "light" or "bright." It represents historical ties to ancient noble families.

1,318,760
71 Huong

Huong means "fragrance" or "aroma," representing someone who brings joy and positivity to others. 

136,526
70 Dung

Dung has multiple meanings, such as "heroic" or "brave." It reflects qualities of courage and valor.

140,898
9 Huynh

Huynh is derived from the Chinese surname Huang, meaning "yellow" or "royal." It reflects historical ties to nobility.

1,417,330
68 Chung

Chung means "common" or "collective" and often reflects unity and togetherness. It signifies solidarity and shared purpose.

144,873
69 Linh

Linh means "spirit" or "soul" and often represents spirituality and the unseen world. It symbolizes someone with inner strength and vitality.

144,873
8 Bui

Bui is linked to a Chinese character representing a regional family name or clan. It generally signifies historical roots in a particular area.

1,482,710
67 Diep

Diep means "leaf" in Vietnamese, representing growth and vitality. It symbolizes someone who embodies renewal and fresh beginnings.

150,835
66 Lai

Lai means "come" or "arrive," signifying a welcoming and positive nature. It often conveys a sense of opportunity or hospitality.

153,816
65 Tuan

Tuan means "orderly" or "disciplined" and can imply intelligence. It reflects someone who is organized and skilled.

154,412
64 Quach

Quach originates from a Chinese surname and usually signifies a regional family lineage. Historically, it may have connections to land or territory.

155,604
63 Trang

Trang typically means "clear" or "bright," often referring to the moon. The name conveys a sense of clarity and radiance.

162,361
7 Phan

Phan originates from the Chinese character that means "plate" or "tray." Historically, it represents a noble family or a merchant class.

1,634,340
62 Lien

Lien means "lotus," which is a significant symbol in Vietnamese culture representing purity and enlightenment. The lotus is revered for its beauty and resilience.

166,137
61 Ngan

Ngan can mean "silver" or "bank," representing wealth and value. It symbolizes prosperity and good fortune.

166,932
60 Quang

Quang means "bright" or "radiant," conveying someone who is brilliant or enlightened. 

175,079
59 Quan

Quan means "soldier" or "official," reflecting a person of high rank or authority. It can represent someone strategic and disciplined.

185,016
58 Dong

Dong means "copper" or "bronze" and is associated with strength or stability. It can also mean "winter."

187,997
57 Le Thi

Le Thi is a combination of the surname Le and Thi, a common middle name for women. Le is associated with the Le dynasty, a prominent ruling family in Vietnamese history. It is thought to have originated from the Chinese character for "plum." Thi means "poem" or "verse."

192,766
56 Thu

Thu means "autumn," symbolizing harvest, maturity, and change. It conveys someone in harmony with the seasons.

198,331
6 Vu (Vo)

Vu, or Vo in the southern dialect, may have originated from a Chinese character meaning "military" or "brave."

2,020,270
55 Thuy

Thuy means "water" or "liquid," symbolizing flexibility and fluidity.

214,428
5 Hoang

Hoang is derived from the Chinese surname Huang, meaning "yellow" or "royal." It signifies nobility or the color of gold.

2,161,170
54 Huu

Huu translates to "have" or "possess," representing someone with valuable qualities or skills. It reflects ownership and abundance.

226,948
53 To

To means "ancestry" or "lineage," signifying a person connected to a respected family or tradition.

240,064
51 Phuong

Phuong means "direction" or "method." It’s commonly used in combination with other names, representing purpose or guidance.

250,795
52 Bao

Bao can mean "treasure" or "valuable" and often symbolizes protection. It reflects someone highly esteemed or protective.

251,590
50 Yen

Yen means "peace" or "calmness," indicating someone with a serene personality or bringing harmony to their environment.

253,577
49 Tung

Tung is linked to the pine tree, which symbolizes resilience and longevity. The surname often represents enduring strength.

261,129
48 Tam

Tam can mean "heart," "mind," or "kindness." It reflects compassion or someone who embodies moral values.

267,687
47 Ngoc

Ngoc means "jade" or "gemstone," representing beauty and purity. It symbolizes someone valuable and cherished.

284,181
46 Ta

Ta comes from a Chinese character meaning "left" or "assist." It may also refer to a position or role in a traditional sense.

285,374
45 An

An means "peace" or "safety," conveying tranquility or security. It often reflects someone with a calm demeanor.

294,515
44 Nguyn

Nguyn is a variant spelling of Nguyen, the most common Vietnamese surname. It reflects historical connections to the Nguyen dynasty.

295,310
43 Tan

Tan can mean "new" or "fresh" and often symbolizes renewal or transformation. It's commonly found in Vietnamese names.

298,092
42 Chu

Chu is believed to mean various things, including "territory" or "division." It is often linked to high status or an authoritative role.

305,048
41 Vuong

Vuong means "king" or "ruler," signifying nobility and authority. It is a powerful surname that reflects leadership.

316,971
40 Minh

Minh translates to "bright" or "clear." It’s a popular surname and given name that conveys wisdom and insight.

318,164
39 Chau

Chau means "pearl" or "gem," symbolizing something precious. It reflects a person who is valued or highly regarded.

328,100
4 Le

Le is associated with the Le dynasty, a prominent ruling family in Vietnamese history. It is thought to have originated from the Chinese character for "plum."

3,411,170
38 Anh

Anh means "bright" or "intelligent" and is used in both surnames and given names. It reflects intellectual or radiant qualities.

351,153
37 Phung

Phung is linked to the mythical phoenix, symbolizing prosperity and resurrection. It reflects high status and virtue.

359,300
36 Van

Van is used in combination with other names and can mean "cloud" or "literary." It suggests sophistication or poetic qualities.

362,878
35 Son

Son means "mountain" and represents a strong connection to nature and stability. It’s often used to indicate strength and resilience.

364,070
34 Mai

Mai is derived from the word for apricot blossom. It signifies beauty, freshness, and new beginnings.

367,051
3 Pham

Pham is believed to have originated from a Chinese surname and has connections to ancient noble families. It generally means "cultivate" or "nurture."

3,695,750
33 Lan

Lan is derived from a Chinese character meaning "orchid," often symbolizing beauty and elegance. It's used as both a surname and given name.

374,801
32 Tu

Tu is linked to a Chinese character meaning "scholar" or "master." It reflects someone well-educated or highly skilled.

375,994
31 Thanh

The surname Thanh can mean "clear," "blue," or "accomplished," and may also be associated with nobility. It is a common Vietnamese surname and given name signifying clarity or virtue.

420,310
30 Ly

Ly has its origins in the Ly dynasty, one of Vietnam's most influential ruling families. The surname is thought to have meant "plum" and symbolizes historical nobility.

421,502
29 Nam

Nam means "south" and reflects ancestral or geographical ties to southern regions.

431,439
28 Thai

Thai is derived from a Chinese character meaning "peace" or "safe."

462,242
27 Luu

Luu is derived from a Chinese character meaning "stay" or "remain." 

468,203
26 Luong

Luong has its roots in a Chinese character meaning "beam" or "bridge." It often represents a supportive or bridging role.

527,027
25 Cao

Cao originates from a Chinese character meaning "high" or "lofty," often symbolizing social status or noble lineage.

545,310
2 Tran

Tran traces its roots to the Tran dynasty, who ruled Vietnam from the 13th to 15th centuries. It originates from a Chinese character meaning "display" or "arrange."

5,588,430
24 Lam

Lam is based on a Chinese character meaning "forest." The surname signifies ties to nature or geographical features.

602,941
23 Hung

Hung is derived from a Chinese word meaning "prosperity" or "abundance." It represents someone who is influential or successful.

656,797
22 Dao

Dao traces its roots to a Chinese character meaning "peach." The surname is associated with beauty and longevity.

665,541
21 Hong

Hong comes from the Chinese word for "rose" or "red." It is also often used as a given name or middle name with various positive connotations.

695,151
20 Thi

Thi is commonly used as a middle name for females in Vietnamese culture and is not exclusively a surname. It generally means "poetry."

697,933
19 Doan

Doan has its roots in a Chinese character meaning "group" or "section." It often represents a lineage involved in governance or administration.

717,011
18 Trinh

Trinh originates from a Chinese surname meaning "order" or "arrange." It represents nobility or administrative roles.

804,452
17 Ho

Ho is based on a Chinese character meaning "lake" or "river." It signifies ties to water bodies or geographical features.

871,025
16 Dinh

Dinh is derived from a Chinese character meaning "stable" or "firm." 

918,720
100 Giang

Giang means "river," symbolizing adaptability and fluidity. It reflects a person who navigates life gracefully.

92,409
99 Tien

Tien can mean "forward" or "progress," signifying advancement and growth. It conveys someone with ambition and a forward-looking mindset.

93,402
98 Dieu

Dieu means "tune" or "harmony," reflecting a person with balance and grace.

94,793
97 Quoc

Quoc means "nation" or "country," often implying patriotism or dedication to one's homeland.

97,178
96 La

La is a Vietnamese surname that likely comes from the Chinese character signifying "net" or "catch." By extension, it symbolizes connections, protection, or a structured network. Historically, the surname often indicates a regional lineage or reflects a family that may have been involved in trade or craftsmanship.

97,377
95 Diem

The surname Diem originates from a Vietnamese given name and word that typically means "point" or "spot." In some contexts, it can also mean "beauty," depending on the tonal accents.

98,967
93 Le Van

Le Van combines Le, a common Vietnamese surname, with Van, which signifies "literature." Together, it suggests a lineage rooted in culture and education.

99,563
94 Hai

Hai means "sea" or "ocean," representing vastness and depth. It reflects someone who is expansive and open-minded.

99,563
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