Yán
Stroke Count: 12

Origin & History

The surname 闫 is derived from the Chinese name Yan, which was originally a surname of a noble family during the Zhou Dynasty. It is also associated with the name of a historical figure, Yan Yuan, a Confucian philosopher. The surname is less common compared to others but has a rich historical background.

Meaning & Notes

The character 闫 is related to the name Yan, which can mean 'to be in a state of' or 'to be in a position of'. As a surname, it reflects historical lineage and is often associated with scholarly or bureaucratic roles. The surname is not as common as others, but it has a distinct historical and cultural significance.

Famous People

  • Yan Fu - Scholar and reformer
  • Yan Qing - Chinese painter and artist
  • Yan Xuetong - Academic and political scientist

Tags

historicalscholarlysurnamerare