Find out how popular the first name Shou has been for the last 9 years (from 1991 to 1999) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shou by gender

Based on the last 9 years of data, Shou is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1999, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Shou.

The history of the first name Shou

The name Shou originates from Chinese culture and language, with its roots tracing back to ancient times. It is derived from the Chinese character 寿, which means "longevity" or "long life." This character is deeply ingrained in Chinese philosophy and beliefs, symbolizing the desire for a long and prosperous existence.

Shou has been a popular name in China for centuries, and its usage can be found in various historical texts and records. One of the earliest documented references to the name Shou is in the Classic of Poetry, an anthology of ancient Chinese poetry dating back to the 11th-7th centuries BC. The name is also mentioned in the Book of Rites, a influential Confucian text from the 3rd century BC, which highlights the importance of longevity and respect for elders.

Throughout Chinese history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Shou. One of the most famous is Shou Qing, a renowned Taoist philosopher and alchemist who lived during the Jin Dynasty (265-420 AD). He is known for his contributions to the study of immortality and the pursuit of longevity through spiritual practices.

Another prominent figure with the name Shou is Shou Xing, a celebrated Chinese painter and calligrapher from the 7th century AD. His works are highly regarded for their elegance and mastery of traditional Chinese art forms, and many of his paintings and calligraphic works have been preserved in museums and collections around the world.

In the realm of literature, Shou Zhuan was a renowned Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) writer and poet. His works, which often explored themes of nature, love, and the human condition, have had a lasting influence on Chinese poetry and literature.

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Shou Ying was a prominent military strategist and general. He is best known for his role in defending China against the Mongol invasions and his contributions to military tactics and strategy.

Another notable figure with the name Shou is Shou Lao, a Taoist deity in Chinese mythology often depicted as an elderly man with a long white beard, symbolizing longevity and wisdom. The worship of Shou Lao has been a part of Chinese folk traditions for centuries, and his image can be found in many temples and shrines across China.

The name Shou has remained a popular choice throughout Chinese history, carrying with it the deep cultural significance of longevity and the aspiration for a long and fulfilling life. Its enduring presence in Chinese culture and tradition has made it a name deeply rooted in the country's rich heritage.

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 Shou was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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