Find out how popular the first name Shao has been for the last 1 years (from 1990 to 1990) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shao by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Shao is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1990, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Shao.

The history of the first name Shao

The given name Shao has its origins in Chinese culture, tracing back to ancient times. It is believed to be derived from the Old Chinese word "shao," which meant "few" or "little." This linguistic root suggests that the name may have initially referred to being the youngest or smallest child in a family.

In early Chinese literature, the name Shao appears in historical records and philosophical texts from as early as the 6th century BCE. One notable mention is in the writings of Confucius, where a disciple named Shao Qing is referenced. This suggests that the name had already been in use for some time during the Spring and Autumn period of ancient China.

Throughout Chinese history, there have been several influential figures who bore the name Shao. One of the earliest was Shao Yong, a renowned mathematician, astronomer, and cosmologist who lived during the 11th century CE. His contributions to the development of the Yi Jing (Book of Changes) and the study of the cosmic order were significant.

Another notable Shao was Shao Kangjie, a prominent calligrapher and painter from the 13th century. His calligraphic works were highly regarded and influential, establishing him as a master of the art form during the Southern Song dynasty.

In the realm of literature, Shao Xunmei was a celebrated poet and essayist who lived during the 17th century. His poetic works, often exploring themes of nature and the human condition, earned him widespread acclaim and a lasting legacy in Chinese literary circles.

Moving forward in time, Shao Qiqiu was a prominent scholar and educator who played a pivotal role in the late 19th century Self-Strengthening Movement in China. His efforts to modernize education and promote Western learning were instrumental in shaping the intellectual landscape of his era.

While the name Shao has its roots in ancient Chinese culture, it has also been adopted and used in various other contexts throughout history. However, its enduring presence in Chinese naming traditions reflects its deep-rooted significance and the rich heritage associated with this given name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Shao was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Shao, please contact us.

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