Lu 1

Lu is a Chinese surname with multiple origins. One of the most common derivations is from the Chinese character 吕 (lǚ), which originally meant "musical note" and also referred to an ancient state. The state of Lu was located in present-day Henan province during the Zhou dynasty. According to historical records, the surname Lu was adopted by descendants of Ji Lv (姬吕), a minister of the Zhou dynasty who enfeoffed in the state of Lu. Another origin traces the surname to a branch of the Jiang (姜) clan, who also held the state of Lu.

The surname Lu (吕) is the 43rd most common surname in China, and it is particularly prevalent in Shandong and Liaoning provinces. Notable bearers include Lu Bu, a famous general of the late Eastern Han dynasty, and Lu Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals in Chinese folklore.

Crucultural Significance

As a relatively common Chinese surname, Lu has been borne by many historical figures from emperors to poets to warriors. The state of Lu is famous as the home of Confucius, though the sage's own surname was Kong. The musical note connection invests the surname with a somewhat artistic connotation among Chinese naming traditions.

• Meaning: musical note; referring to the ancient state of Lu
• Origin: Chinese character 吕
• Type: Surname
• Usage regions: China, particularly Shandong, Liaoning