Meaning: The surname 阎 (Yán) originates from the Ji clan, a branch of the Zhou Dynasty's ruling family. It is derived from the place name 阎乡, where descendants of Kang Shu, a brother of King Wu of Zhou, were granted land. Some variations of the surname also come from少数民族 (minority ethnic groups) who adopted the name during historical assimilation.
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.77 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.327 place
Yan Hao (阎灏)
An official during the Northern Song Dynasty, he passed the imperial examination in 1049 and served in various governmental posts, including as a Secretary and Erudite of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, ultimately becoming an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Works.
YAN ERMEI (阎尔梅)
a poet of the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, known for his work 'Baita Shanren Ji' and his association with the Fushe society.
Yan Tiaogeng (阎调羹)
A Ming dynasty official who held various positions including Minister of the Household, Prefect of Taiyuan, and Judicial Commissioner of Shandong, and retired as a Minister of the Court of Judicial Review.
'阎' is a surname with deep roots in ancient Chinese nobility and mythology. It’s tied to the Zhou Dynasty and has connections to both royal lineage and the mystical underworld.