Meaning: The surname 廖 (Liào) is believed to have originated from multiple sources. One theory suggests it derives from the Ji (姬) clan, an offspring of King Wen of Zhou, who was granted the fiefdom of 廖 and subsequently adopted the surname 廖. Another theory posits that it traces back to Liao Shuan, a descendant of the Yellow Emperor, who was enfeoffed in the region of 廖. The character 廖 carries the meaning of 'spacious' or 'sparse,' reflecting its ancient roots and historical significance, particularly in southern China.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.58 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.342 place
Liao Zhongkai (廖仲恺)
a democratic revolutionary and left-wing leader of the Kuomintang during the late Qing and early Republic of China, author of 'Shuang Qing Ci Cao'.
Liao Zhengyi (廖正一)
A Song Dynasty official and poet, known by the courtesy name Minglue and the literary name Bamboo Grove Hermit, who passed the imperial examination in 1079 and was exiled for being associated with the Yuanyou Party.
Liao Xingzhi (廖行之)
a Southern Song Dynasty scholar and official from Hengzhou, known for his work 'Provincial Studio Collection'.
'廖' is a surname with deep historical roots, possibly tracing back to ancient royalty or noble lineage. It carries the meaning of being 'spacious' or 'sparse,' symbolizing a legacy of openness and breadth.