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  4. 鸥

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鸥

Ōu
Stroke Count: 11

Origin & History

The surname 鸦 (which is a different character) is derived from the ancient Chinese concept of the 'eagle' or 'bird', but the surname 鸦 is not the same as 鸥. The surname 鸥 is related to the bird 'gull' and is believed to have originated from the name of a historical figure or a place. However, the exact origin is not well-documented in historical records.

Meaning & Notes

The surname 鸥 is associated with the gull or sea bird, symbolizing freedom, the sea, and the sky. It is a relatively rare surname in China, often linked with the natural world and maritime themes. The character itself is composed of the radical for 'bird' (鸟) and the component '欧', which can mean 'to go' or 'to move', suggesting movement or travel.

Famous People

  • Wang Guowei (Ou Guowei) - Chinese scholar, poet, and philosopher

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