Xu 2

Xu 2 (许) is a prominent Chinese surname with ancient origins linked to the minor state of Xu, which existed in what is now Henan province until its annexation in the 4th century BC. The Chinese character 许 meaning "allow, permit" serves as the surname's written form. This surname is one of the various Chinese lineages written with the same character, distinct from other Xu surnames (like 徐 or 胥). The state of Xu, traditionally considered a vassal of the Zhou dynasty, lends its name to this lineage, with descendants adopting the state's name as their surname after its fall. For broader context, the character 许 is also used in compound words conveying permission or promise, reflecting the semantic evolution of the written form.

The variant Hsu 2 represents the same surname in Wade-Giles romanization, commonly encountered in older English texts and among overseas Chinese communities from Taiwan and Hong Kong. This surname is widely distributed across China, with notable concentrations in southern provinces like Guangdong and Fujian, as well as significant diaspora populations in Southeast Asia and North America. While not among the most common Chinese surnames, Xu 2 remains well-recognized, and its bearers include historical figures such as military leaders and scholars from imperial China.