Meaning: The surname 严 (Yán) originates from the state of Chu during the Spring and Autumn period. It is said that descendants of King Zhuang of Chu took the surname 庄 (Zhuāng), which was later changed to 严 (Yán) to avoid the name taboo of Emperor Ming of Han. Another theory suggests that 严 (Yán) stems from the姜 (Jiāng) clan, descendants of the legendary Yan Emperor. Throughout history, many intellectuals and scholars have borne this surname, such as the Tang Dynasty poet Yan Wei and the Song Dynasty literary figure Yan Yu.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.94 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.27 place
YAN FUBAO (严福保)
A Qing dynasty official who served as the magistrate of Wuchang County, Hubei, known for his benevolent governance.
Yan Fu (严复)
a Chinese translator and artist, renowned for his translations of Western philosophical works.
Yan Duan (严端)
a Ming Dynasty filial son who served as an official before retiring to care for his mother for over 40 years, with her reaching the age of 104, his filial piety became a widely praised story.
The surname 严 (Yán) carries a sense of seriousness and dignity. It has roots in ancient royalty and has been borne by many prominent scholars and poets throughout Chinese history.