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 Cheng (严澂)
a Ming dynasty official and qin player, known for authoring 'The Qin Manual of Pine and String Hall'.
Yan Yipeng (严一鹏)
A Ming Dynasty official from Wuxi, known for his integrity and efforts in impeaching corrupt eunuchs, eventually rising to the position of Vice Minister of Justice.
Yan Zhenzhi (严震直)
a prominent official during the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties, known for his contributions to infrastructure and governance reforms.
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.