Zhu

朱 — Red, vermilion; a type of cinnabar

15,400,000

Population

#15

Country Rank

1.13%

of Population

Chinese Names

Culture

Origin & History

The Zhu surname is most famously associated with the imperial family of the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), founded by Zhu Yuanzhang (Emperor Hongwu), a peasant who overthrew the Mongol Yuan Dynasty. The character 朱 represents the colour vermilion red, associated with fire, the south, and imperial authority. Earlier origins trace the surname to Cao Xia, a descendant of the legendary Emperor Zhuan Xu.