xián
Stroke Count: 11

Origin & History

The surname 贤 is derived from the ancient Chinese concept of 'virtue' or 'excellence', often associated with the idea of a wise or learned person. It is believed to have originated from the Zhou Dynasty, where it was used to denote those who excelled in moral and intellectual qualities.

Meaning & Notes

The character 贤 means 'virtuous' or 'excellent', and when used as a surname, it signifies a lineage of moral and intellectual excellence. It is often linked to the idea of a sage or a person of high virtue, reflecting a tradition of valuing wisdom and moral integrity.

Famous People

  • Xian Xinghai - Composer and musician
  • Xian Sheng - Chinese classical musician
  • Xian Yaxiong - Chinese politician and military leader

Tags

virtueintellectualmoralhistorical