Su (苏) – Quick Overview
Chinese character: 苏
Pinyin: Sū
Pronunciation: “soo” (like the English name “Sue”, high and level)
Meaning: To revive / perilla plant / abbreviation for Jiangsu and Suzhou
Ranking: Among the top 50 most common surnames in China
What Does Su Mean?
The surname Su (苏) originates from the ancient State of Su, located in present-day Henan Province. According to legend, Su descends from Kunwu, a descendant of the Yellow Emperor. Another major branch comes from the Mi surname of the Chu kingdom, where a noble adopted the name of his fief, Su.
Today, Su is most common in Guangdong, Fujian, and the Jiangsu-Zhejiang region. The name is associated with revival, creativity, and literary brilliance — fitting for the family that produced one of China’s most beloved literary figures.
Famous People with the Su Surname
Su Shi (苏轼) – One of China’s greatest poets, writers, and calligraphers from the Song dynasty, also known as Su Dongpo
Su Wu (苏武) – Legendary Han dynasty diplomat whose 19 years of steadfast loyalty became a symbol of integrity in Chinese culture
Su Bingtian (苏炳添) – World-class sprinter, the first Asian-born athlete to run 100 meters in under 10 seconds
Chinese Names That Go Well with Su
Here are some well-balanced Chinese given names that pair naturally with Su:
Male Names
Su Haoran (苏浩然) – Vast and noble spirit
Su Yuxuan (苏宇轩) – Cosmic and elegant
Su Mingze (苏铭泽) – Remembered grace and kindness
Female Names
Su Shihan (苏诗涵) – Poetic and graceful
Su Yuxin (苏雨欣) – Joyful like refreshing rain
Su Wanlin (苏婉琳) – Gentle and beautiful jade
These names are commonly used, easy to pronounce, and culturally meaningful.
Best English Names That Match Su
If you are looking for an English name to pair with Su, here are some good options:
Male
Su Sam
Su Sean
Su Simon
Female
Su Susan
Su Sarah
Su Sophie
Short and smooth English names usually pair better with Su.
How to Pronounce Su Correctly
Pinyin: Sū
Sounds like: “soo”
Tone: High level tone (1st tone)
Tip: The sound is clean and sustained. Keep your pitch high and steady, like holding a musical note. It sounds just like the English name “Sue.”
Generate Your Own Su Chinese Name
If your surname is Su, you can create a personalized Chinese name based on:
Meaning (wisdom, beauty, strength, etc.)
Gender preference
Style (modern / traditional)
Try combining Su with meaningful characters like:
Su Rui (苏锐) – sharp mind and keen insight
Su Yue (苏越) – surpassing excellence
Su Mei (苏美) – beauty and grace