The Story Behind Chinese Names — Part 2: Exploring Zhang, Zhao & Sun (张、赵、孙)

Welcome back to our surname exploration series!
In Part 1, we uncovered the origins of some of the most common Chinese surnames in Singapore. Today, we continue the journey with three more widely recognized names: Zhang (张), Zhao (赵), and Sun (孙). Beyond their linguistic origins, each surname carries centuries of history — and in some cases, ties to iconic figures in Chinese culture and legend.

Zhang 张 (Zhāng)

Origins
The surname Zhang is believed to have originated more than 4,000 years ago, linked to the legendary figure Hui (挥), a bowmaker or archer serving the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi). The character 张 combines 弓 (bow) and 长 (to stretch), representing archery — reflecting the family’s early association with military skill and craftsmanship. Over centuries, the Zhang lineage spread across China, producing scholars, officials, and martial artists.

Interesting Facts

• Zhang is one of the most common surnames in China, shared by tens of millions of people.
• Historically, the surname became associated with precision, discipline, and service — traits idealized in both martial and civil traditions.

Zhang Sanfeng (张三丰)
Zhang Sanfeng, a semi-legendary Taoist master of the late Song and early Ming dynasties, is credited with creating Tai Chi (太极拳), blending martial arts with philosophy and meditation. Said to have achieved extraordinary longevity and mystical insight, he embodies the Taoist ideal of harmonizing mind, body, and spirit. For many, Zhang Sanfeng represents wisdom, balance, and inner strength, elevating the cultural significance of the Zhang surname.

Zhao 赵 (Zhào)

Origins
The Zhao surname traces back to the State of Zhao (赵国) during the Warring States period (475–221 BC). Members of the ruling family adopted Zhao as their clan name, establishing a lineage that became one of China’s most prominent surnames. Zhao also appears first in the classic poem “Hundred Family Surnames (百家姓)”, highlighting its historical prestige.

Interesting Facts

• Bearing the surname Zhao was historically linked to aristocracy and governance, especially after the Song Dynasty’s imperial family.
• The name conveys loyalty, nobility, and martial prestige.

Zhao Yun (赵云)
Zhao Yun was a general under Liu Bei during the late Eastern Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period. Celebrated for bravery, loyalty, and skill, he famously rescued Liu Bei’s infant son amid battlefield chaos. Zhao Yun’s heroism was immortalized in “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”, making him a lasting symbol of honor, courage, and righteousness.

Sun 孙 (Sūn)

Origins
The surname Sun has several lineages, one tracing to Sun Shu Ao (孙叔敖), a renowned statesman and engineer during the Spring and Autumn Period (771–476 BC). He implemented extensive irrigation systems, transforming agriculture in the State of Chu. Later descendants adopted his name as their surname, creating a lineage associated with leadership and strategic skill.

Interesting Facts

• Sun remains a common surname in China, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities.
• Historically, it has been tied to scholars, strategists, and officials.
  

Sun Tzu (孙子 / 孙武)
Sun Tzu, born circa 544 BC in the State of Wu, was a military strategist and general. Author of the renowned “The Art of War (孙子兵法)”, he emphasized planning, adaptability, and psychological insight — advocating winning without unnecessary conflict. Sun Tzu’s legacy influenced not only Chinese military thinking but also global business, politics, and management, giving the Sun surname a lasting association with wisdom, foresight, and strategic mastery.

A Legacy in Every Name

Zhang, Zhao, and Sun are more than just surnames — they are windows into history, legend, and philosophy. Each carries stories of martial skill, moral integrity, and intellectual achievement. Through centuries of migration and cultural adaptation, these names connect modern families to extraordinary ancestors who shaped Chinese civilisation.

Stay tuned for Part 3!