Yeung

Yeung is a British surname of Chinese origin, often spelled as Yang in the Cantonese dialect. The surname is common among the Chinese diaspora in the United Kingdom and is believed to have originated from the areas of Guangdong and Hong Kong.

Origins and Meaning:

The surname Yeung is traced back to ancient Chinese dynasties. It is derived from the Chinese character “楊”, which means “willow tree”. The willow tree is a symbol of strength, resilience, and vitality in Chinese culture. As such, the surname Yeung is associated with qualities such as gracefulness, flexibility, and adaptability.

Distribution and Influence:

The surname Yeung is predominantly found in regions with a significant Chinese population, such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Many individuals bearing the surname Yeung have made notable contributions to various fields, including business, academia, the arts, and politics.

Notable Individuals:

  • Sir David Yeung: A prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his contributions to environmental conservation.
  • Dr. Mei Li Yeung: A respected academic in the field of Chinese history and culture.
  • Jennifer Yeung: An emerging artist whose work explores themes of identity and diaspora.

As a surname, Yeung serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and diverse contributions of the Chinese community in Britain. Its prevalence highlights the enduring legacy of Chinese immigrants and their descendants in shaping the social fabric of the country.

There are approximately 2,140 people named Yeung in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,960th most common surname in Britain. Around 33 in a million people in Britain are named Yeung.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: China

Language of origin: Chinese

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Chi
  • Chun
  • David
  • Ka
  • Kenneth
  • Kin
  • Koon
  • Man
  • Peter
  • Simon
  • Wai

Female

  • Carol
  • Kam
  • Karen
  • Kim
  • Kit
  • Lai
  • Lily
  • Mei
  • Michelle
  • Siu
  • Sze
  • Wai
  • Wing
  • 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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