Cao (Chinese surname)

Cao (曹) is a common Chinese surname. Its Wade-Giles romanization is Ts'ao, and in Cantonese, it is romanized as Cho.

Origin and History

The surname Cao is believed to have originated from the state of Zou (邾), also known as Cao (曹), during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC). The state of Zou was granted to Cao Xiaozheng (曹挾), the youngest son of King Wu of Zhou (c. 1046 – 1043 BC). The people of Zou eventually adopted Cao as their surname. Another origin traces back to the Ji (姬) lineage, the royal family of the Zhou Dynasty. During the Spring and Autumn Period, descendants of the Zhou royal family were enfeoffed with the territory of Cao, and their descendants subsequently adopted Cao as their surname.

Distribution

The Cao surname is found throughout China, with a significant presence in provinces such as Shandong, Henan, Jiangsu, and Anhui. It is also found in overseas Chinese communities.

Notable People

Numerous historical and contemporary figures have borne the surname Cao. Some prominent examples include:

• Cao Cao (曹操) (155–220 AD), a prominent warlord and statesman during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and the founder of the Kingdom of Wei in the Three Kingdoms period.
• Cao Pi (曹丕) (187–226 AD), the first emperor of the Cao Wei state during the Three Kingdoms period, son of Cao Cao.
• Cao Zhi (曹植) (192–232 AD), a prince of the Cao Wei state during the Three Kingdoms period, renowned poet.
• Cao Xueqin (曹雪芹) (c. 1715 – 1763/1764), author of the classic Chinese novel Dream of the Red Chamber.
• Cao Yu (曹禺) (1910–1996), a prominent Chinese playwright, considered one of the most important of the 20th century.

Variations and Romanizations

The surname Cao has different romanizations depending on the dialect and system used. Common variations include:

• Ts'ao (Wade-Giles)
• Cho (Cantonese)
• Tso (alternate romanization)

Cultural Significance

The surname Cao is associated with a rich history and a legacy of influential figures in Chinese history, literature, and the arts. It carries connotations of leadership, intellect, and artistic talent.