Gao (surname)

Gao (高) is a Chinese surname that ranks as the 15th most common surname in Mainland China. It is romanized as Kao in Wade-Giles. The surname Gao has multiple origins rooted in ancient Chinese history, royalty, and geography.

Origins:

• From the State of Qi: One major origin traces back to the State of Qi during the Spring and Autumn period. A descendant of the Qi royal family, Gao Jing (高敬), was granted the fief of Gao, located in present-day Shandong province. His descendants adopted Gao as their surname. This is considered the primary origin of the Gao surname.

• From the State of Chu: Another origin links to the State of Chu during the Warring States period. Certain officials and people within the Chu territory adopted Gao as a surname.

• From other minority groups: The Gao surname has also been adopted by various minority ethnic groups in China throughout history, often through sinicization.

Notable Individuals:

Numerous notable individuals throughout Chinese history and in the modern era have borne the Gao surname. These individuals have made contributions in various fields, including politics, literature, art, science, and sports.

Geographical Distribution:

While the Gao surname is widespread throughout China, its distribution is more concentrated in certain regions, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the country. Shandong province, the location of the original fief, is still a region with a high concentration of people with the Gao surname.

Variations and Related Surnames:

The Gao surname, written as 高, has no direct alternative spellings in simplified Chinese. Its Wade-Giles romanization is Kao. There are no widely recognized closely related surnames that share the same origin and are often confused with Gao.

Cultural Significance:

The Gao surname, like many Chinese surnames, carries cultural significance relating to ancestry, family history, and regional identity. Family genealogies and ancestral halls are often maintained to trace and honor the lineage of families with the Gao surname. The surname is associated with positive connotations, as the character 高 implies height, nobility, and excellence.