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Origin & History

The surname 贝 is derived from the ancient Chinese character for 'shell' or 'pearl', symbolizing wealth and value. It is one of the more common surnames in China and has historical roots in the Zhou Dynasty, associated with the shell as a symbol of prosperity and status.

Meaning & Notes

The character 贝 represents the shell or pearl, often linked to wealth and abundance. As a surname, it conveys a sense of value and historical significance. It is also associated with the concept of 'treasure' and is sometimes connected to the idea of a 'shell money' system in ancient China.

Famous People

  • Wang Bao (Bai) - Historian and scholar
  • Bai Xingye - Chinese actor and director
  • Bai Yuzhou - Northern Song Dynasty poet and scholar

Tags

commonhistoricalwealthnature