公孙
Origin & History
The surname 公孙 is derived from the ancient Chinese system of naming, where it was used to denote the descendants of a noble family. It originates from the Zhou Dynasty and is associated with the lineage of the royal family, particularly the descendants of the Son of Heaven. The name was originally a title given to the descendants of the emperor or high-ranking officials, and over time it became a hereditary surname.
Meaning & Notes
The surname 公孙 literally translates to 'son of the public' or 'son of the state', reflecting its historical association with noble lineage. It is a rare surname in modern China, often found in historical texts and in the names of notable figures from ancient times. The name carries connotations of prestige and historical significance, linked to the bureaucratic and aristocratic classes of ancient China.
Famous People
- Gong Sun Wu - General during the Warring States period
- Gong Sun Chong - Scholar and statesman of the Han Dynasty
- Gong Sun Xu - Historian and philosopher of the Han Dynasty