Teng (surname)

Teng (滕) is a Chinese surname. It is relatively uncommon, but has a traceable history and notable bearers.

Origin and History:

The surname Teng is said to have originated from the ancient State of Teng (滕國), a small state during the Zhou dynasty, located in present-day Tengzhou City, Shandong province. The rulers of Teng were descended from the Ji (姬) lineage, the royal family of the Zhou dynasty. After the State of Teng was conquered by the State of Yue in the Warring States period, some of the people of Teng adopted the name of their former state as their surname.

Another possible origin suggests a connection to a fiefdom granted to a noble named Teng during an earlier period. However, the most widely accepted and documented origin points back to the State of Teng.

Distribution and Prevalence:

While not one of the most common surnames in China, the Teng surname can be found throughout the country, with a higher concentration in areas historically associated with the State of Teng. It has also spread overseas with Chinese diaspora communities.

Notable People:

• Teng Wengong (滕文公): A ruler of the State of Teng during the Warring States period, known for his interactions with Mencius.
• Teng Daiyuan (滕代远): A prominent military leader and politician in the People's Republic of China.

Variations and Romanization:

The Teng surname is generally romanized as Teng in Pinyin. It is written as 滕 in simplified Chinese characters. Alternative romanizations may exist based on different dialects and transliteration systems.