Lau

Surname: Lau

Origin and Meaning: Lau is a surname of Chinese origin. Its meaning varies depending on the Chinese character used to write it. Lau can be transliterated from several Chinese surnames, including 刘 (Liu), 卢 (Lu), 罗 (Luo), and more.

Distribution and Frequency: The surname Lau is relatively common in regions with a Chinese diaspora, such as in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom.

History: Lau is a common Chinese surname with a long history. It is believed to have originated from different regions in ancient China, and its bearers can trace their ancestry to various lineages. Over time, some bearers of the surname Lau have migrated and settled in different countries, contributing to the dispersion of the name.

Notable People:

  • Lau Yiu-fai: Hong Kong film director known for his work in the film industry.
  • Lau Wong Fat: Former Hong Kong politician and businessman.

Cultural Significance: The surname Lau carries with it a sense of cultural heritage and identity for those belonging to its lineage. It often signifies a connection to Chinese traditions and ancestry. In multicultural societies like the United Kingdom, individuals with the surname Lau may find themselves balancing dual identities, bridging their Chinese heritage with their British surroundings.

Variants and Derivatives: Variants of the surname Lau include Lao, Low, and Lao. Depending on the region and dialect, the pronunciation and spelling of the surname may vary.

There are approximately 5,737 people named Lau in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,651st most common surname in Britain. Around 88 in a million people in Britain are named Lau.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: China

Language of origin: Chinese

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Chi
  • Chun
  • David
  • Ka
  • Kwok
  • Man
  • Raymond
  • Simon
  • Wai
  • William

Female

  • Jennifer
  • Jenny
  • Kam
  • Kim
  • Kit
  • Lai
  • Mei
  • Pui
  • Sau
  • Siu
  • Sun
  • Susan
  • Wendy
  • Wing
  • 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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