The name Xu is of Chinese origin and is a common surname in China. It is one of the most popular surnames in the country, ranking as the sixth most frequent according to a survey conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics of China.
The character for Xu is 徐, which means "slow" or "gradual". This meaning is believed to be related to the historical significance of the name. During the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD), there was a famous military strategist named Zhuge Liang who went by the courtesy name of "Kongming". His ancestral home was in the Xu commandery, which is located in modern-day Hubei province. As a result, people from this area were referred to as "Xu Ren" or "people of Xu", and eventually, their surname became Xu.
Throughout history, many notable figures have borne the Xu surname. One example is Xuanzang (also known as Tripitaka), a monk who traveled to India in search of Buddhist scriptures during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Another famous figure is Xu Bing, a contemporary Chinese artist whose work explores the relationship between language and visual culture.
Today, the surname Xu continues to be widely used in China and among overseas Chinese communities. It is also one of the most popular surnames chosen by parents for their children in recent years. While its meaning of "slow" or "gradual" may not directly influence the bearer's personality or character, it serves as a reminder of the name's rich history and cultural significance.
The name Xu has a unique presence in the United States, with only five babies being born each year bearing this distinct name since 1988. This rarity may contribute to its intriguing allure for parents seeking an uncommon yet memorable moniker for their child.
While it's not one of the most popular choices among new parents, the steady presence of Xu over time indicates that there is a consistent appreciation for this name within various communities across America. Over the course of three decades, from 1988 to 2017 inclusive, a total of just 5 babies have been named Xu each year on average.
It's important to note that even though Xu might not be a household name, its consistent occurrence year after year showcases how it holds significance for some families. Perhaps these parents choose Xu because they appreciate its uniqueness or because it has personal meaning to them.
In conclusion, the name Xu is quite uncommon in the United States, with only five births recorded annually since 1988. Despite its rarity, this intriguing moniker continues to appear year after year, demonstrating that some families still value and appreciate the name Xu for their children.