公

Origin & History

The surname 公 is derived from the ancient Chinese concept of 'public' or 'royal', and is associated with the title of a duke or a high-ranking official. It originated during the Zhou Dynasty and is linked to the idea of public service and governance.

Meaning & Notes

The character 公 denotes public, common, or royal. As a surname, it signifies a connection to authority, nobility, or a prestigious lineage. It is also used in titles and honorifics, reflecting a sense of dignity and public responsibility.

Famous People

• Confucius (Kong Fu), but note that Confucius is not a 公 surname
• Wang Xizhi (a famous calligrapher, but not a 公 surname)
• The surname 公 is less common and not associated with widely recognized historical figures in the same way as other surnames like Li or Zhang. However, it is used in some historical contexts and literary works.

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