Yao: Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

At a Glance

Meaning
Primarily a Chinese surname; also the name of an ethnic group in China
Origin
Mandarin (Chinese surname)
Pronunciation
YOW

Yao is a Mandarin (Chinese surname) name used mostly for boys meaning “primarily a Chinese surname; also the name of an ethnic group in China”. It appears in our list of Chinese Baby Names With Beautiful Characters.

Meaning & Origin of Yao

Meaning: Primarily a Chinese surname; also the name of an ethnic group in China.

Origin: Mandarin (Chinese surname).

A common claim: Precious jade, fine gemstone Actually: Yao is documented as a Chinese surname and ethnic-group name, not as a word meaning 'jade' or 'gemstone' -- that sense likely belongs to a different character with the same spelling.

Source: Wiktionary.

How to Pronounce Yao

YOWIPA /jaʊ/

Popularity of Yao

Lists That Include Yao

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Ling · Qing · Fang · Wen · Hong · Yi

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