Kwok

Origin and Meaning:

Kwok is a surname of Chinese origin, predominantly found in the Cantonese-speaking regions of China and the diaspora communities around the world. The name is written as 郭 in Chinese characters. In Cantonese, it is pronounced as "Gwok." The name Kwok is typically transliterated as "Kwok" in English, but variations like "Kwong" or "Guo" may also exist.

History:

The Kwok surname has a long history, tracing its roots back to ancient China. It is believed that the name originated from a place called Guo, which was an ancient Chinese fiefdom during the Zhou Dynasty. Over time, descendants of the ruling families of Guo adopted the name Kwok as their surname.

Within the Chinese diaspora, especially in places like Hong Kong, Kwok is a common surname. The Kwok family is one of the influential business families in Hong Kong, known for their involvement in real estate development and other industries.

Notable People:

  • Walter Kwok: A prominent Hong Kong businessman and the former chairman of Sun Hung Kai Properties, one of the largest property developers in Hong Kong.

  • Raymond Kwok: Brother of Walter Kwok and the current chairman of Sun Hung Kai Properties.

  • Bernard Kwok: A well-known architect and designer based in the United Kingdom.

Legacy:

The Kwok surname carries a legacy of success, especially in the realms of business and entrepreneurship. The notable individuals bearing this surname have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a mark on the business landscape in Hong Kong and beyond.

References:

  • "The Wonders of Chinese Surnames" by Lan Qingsong (2015)
  • "Famous Kwok Family: A Real-Estate Empire in Hong Kong" by Chan Wing-keung (2010)
  • "Chinese Surnames and Their Meanings" by Wang Li (2008)

There are approximately 1,305 people named Kwok in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,997th most common surname in Britain. Around 20 in a million people in Britain are named Kwok.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: China

Language of origin: Chinese

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Chi
  • Chun
  • Chung
  • Ho
  • Ka
  • Kam
  • Man
  • Peter
  • Wai

Female

  • Angela
  • Kam
  • Kim
  • Lai
  • Linda
  • Mei
  • Olyvia
  • Pui
  • Siu
  • Wai
  • Wing
  • Winnie
  • Yee
  • Ying
  • Yuk

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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