In Chinese culture, a name is not just a personal identifier; it carries profound meaning and beautiful aspirations. Single-character names are particularly favored for their simplicity and depth, especially among male names. This article will introduce you to 10 classic Chinese single-character given names for men, each with its unique story and symbolic significance. Let’s explore these names filled with wisdom and cultural heritage together!
1. 伟（Wěi）
Meaning of the Name：
- The character “伟” (Wěi) means great or outstanding, often used to describe virtues, talents, or achievements.
Famous Individuals：
- 鲁迅（Lǔ Xùn，周树人）
- Lu Xun (Lǔ Xùn, Zhou Shuren): An important writer in modern Chinese literature, he used “伟” as one of his pen names. His representative work, “A Madman’s Diary,” reveals societal illness and individual loneliness, profoundly influencing Chinese literature.
- 王伟（Wáng Wěi）
- Wang Wei (Wáng Wěi): A renowned military leader who held important positions in the People’s Liberation Army of China. He excelled in fighting foreign enemies and maintaining national security, participating in several significant military operations, and was awarded the title of “National Outstanding Commander” for his exceptional strategic vision and leadership skills.
- 李伟（Lǐ Wěi）
- Li Wei (Lǐ Wěi): A famous Chinese scientist focusing on the field of biomedicine. His notable work, “Introduction to Modern Biotechnology,” has received widespread acclaim, promoting research and application in biotechnology.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “伟” symbolizes positive and uplifting qualities, conveying a yearning for excellence and achievement.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen with positive meanings, hoping for a bright future and outstanding life for the child.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, particularly in formal settings, as it conveys a sense of grandeur and extraordinary character.
2. 磊 (Lěi)
Meaning of the Name：
- The character “磊” (Lěi) means resilient and upright, often used to describe a person’s steadfast and bright character.
Famous Individuals：
- 刘磊（Liú Lěi）
- Liú Lěi: A well-known entrepreneur and pioneer in the tech industry, he founded a leading company in artificial intelligence. His flagship product is an intelligent data analysis software widely used in finance and healthcare, significantly advancing technology in these fields.
- 张磊（Zhāng Lěi）
- Zhāng Lěi: A famous investor and financial commentator known for his in-depth market analysis. His investment strategies have been adopted by many startups, and he has shared his experiences of successfully investing in startups through precise data analysis at investment forums, inspiring many young investors.
- 李磊（Lǐ Lěi）
- Lǐ Lěi: A cultural critic and writer focusing on modern Chinese culture. His book “On the Edge of History” deeply explores the relationship between traditional culture and modern society, receiving wide acclaim from academia and the public.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “磊” symbolizes resilience and integrity, conveying a positive and uplifting attitude toward life.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen with positive meanings, hoping for children to possess resilient character and a bright future.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in formal settings, as it conveys a sense of extraordinary and steady character.
3. 强 (Qiáng)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “强” (Qiáng) means strong and powerful, often used to describe a determined will and abundant strength.
Famous Individuals：
- 张强（Zhāng Qiáng）
- Zhāng Qiáng: A well-known athlete who won gold medals in international athletics competitions. His story inspires many young athletes, and his relentless effort and fighting spirit in training have become a model in the sports community.
- 王强（Wáng Qiáng）
- Wáng Qiáng: A famous film director known for directing several popular TV series and movies, such as “In the Name of the People.” His works profoundly reflect social realities and have received high praise from audiences and critics alike.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “强” symbolizes strength and resilience, conveying an indomitable spirit in the face of challenges.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen with positive meanings, hoping that children will grow up to be strong and independent individuals.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in the fields of sports and business, as it conveys a sense of strength and determination.
4. 杰 (Jié)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “杰” (Jié) means outstanding and excellent, often used to describe a person with extraordinary talent and achievements.
Famous Individuals：
- 王杰（Wáng Jié）
- Wáng Jié: A well-known singer famous for his unique voice and touching lyrics, with the hit song “无所谓” (Whatever) becoming a classic in Chinese music. His music resonates with countless listeners and is widely beloved.
- 李杰（Lǐ Jié）
- Lǐ Jié: A renowned pilot who has participated in numerous significant aviation missions. He won the championship in an international aviation competition, becoming a source of pride for the nation.
- 陈杰（Chén Jié）
- Chén Jié: A scientist dedicated to research on new materials, he has published several important papers contributing to technological advancement. His research results are widely applied in industry and engineering.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “杰” symbolizes excellence and talent, conveying a yearning for outstanding qualities.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen with positive meanings, hoping that children will stand out and achieve greatness.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, particularly in the arts and academic fields, as it conveys a sense of excellence and distinction.
5. 洋 (Yáng)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “洋” (Yáng) means vast and broad, often used to describe a person with a generous heart and wide vision.
Famous Individuals：
- 李洋（Lǐ Yáng）
- Lǐ Yáng: A well-known writer whose work “Kafka on the Shore” is beloved by readers, telling stories about human relationships and self-exploration. His works have garnered widespread attention in the literary community.
- 王洋（Wáng Yáng）
- Wáng Yáng: A famous actor who has appeared in several popular TV dramas, such as “Like a Flowing River,” receiving recognition and praise from audiences for his performances.
- 张洋（Zhāng Yáng）
- Zhāng Yáng: A scientist focused on climate change research, he has published numerous papers that significantly impact environmental protection. His involvement in international cooperation projects has raised global awareness of climate change.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “洋” symbolizes openness and inclusiveness, conveying a yearning for the future and a spirit of exploration.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen for their positive meanings, hoping that children will embrace the world and broaden their horizons.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in international communication and cultural arts, as it conveys an open and grand demeanor.
6. 宁 (Níng)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “宁” (Níng) means peace and tranquility, often used to describe a person’s inner calm and serenity.
Famous Individuals：
- 李宁（Lǐ Níng）
- Lǐ Níng: A renowned gymnast who has won multiple Olympic gold medals, he is a legendary figure in Chinese gymnastics. His story inspires countless young athletes, and his brand “Li-Ning” has become an internationally recognized sports brand.
- 张宁（Zhāng Níng）
- Zhāng Níng: A well-known writer and poet whose works have won numerous awards, known for his delicate writing that captures the subtle emotions of life.
- 王宁（Wáng Níng）
- Wáng Níng: A famous director who has helmed several hit dramas, such as “My First Half of Life,” beloved by audiences for often exploring philosophical themes of life.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “宁” symbolizes harmony and peace, conveying a longing for inner tranquility.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen for their positive meanings, with the hope that children will possess a peaceful and calm mindset.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in the fields of literature and art, showcasing a sense of tranquility and elegance.
7. 勇 (Yǒng)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “勇” (Yǒng) means brave and resolute, often used to describe a person’s courage and determination in facing challenges.
Famous Individuals：
- 刘勇（Liú Yǒng）
- Liú Yǒng: A well-known military general who has excelled in numerous battles, earning countless honors for his bravery and wisdom.
- 张勇（Zhāng Yǒng）
- Zhāng Yǒng: A famous entrepreneur and founder of the hot pot brand “Haidilao,” he successfully transformed the brand into an internationally recognized name with his unique management philosophy and innovative spirit.
- 王勇（Wáng Yǒng）
- Wáng Yǒng: A well-known athlete who has represented the country in various extreme sports competitions, repeatedly winning championships and showcasing an indomitable spirit.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “勇” symbolizes courage and resilience, conveying a positive attitude towards challenges.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen with positive meanings, hoping that children will bravely pursue their dreams and forge ahead.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all ages, especially in the fields of sports and adventure, showcasing a spirit of bravery and resilience.
8. 翔 (Xiáng)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “翔” (Xiáng) means to soar or fly high, often used to describe a person’s lofty ambitions and pursuit of freedom.
Famous Individuals：
- 刘翔（Liú Xiáng）
- Liú Xiáng: A renowned Chinese track and field athlete who won the gold medal in the 110-meter hurdles at the 2004 Athens Olympics, becoming a legend in Asian athletics. His success inspires countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.
- 王翔（Wáng Xiáng）
- Wáng Xiáng: A well-known scientist specializing in aerospace technology, he has participated in several national key projects, making significant contributions to China’s aviation industry.
- 李翔（Lǐ Xiáng）
- Lǐ Xiáng: A famous director who has helmed many successful film and television works, often focusing on themes of humanity and dreams, beloved by audiences.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “翔” symbolizes freedom and ideals, conveying a beautiful vision for the future.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen for their positive meanings, with the hope that children will bravely pursue their ideals.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all ages, particularly in the fields of arts and sports, showcasing a sense of freedom and idealism.
9. 俊 (Jùn)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “俊” (Jùn) means handsome and talented, often used to describe a person’s outstanding appearance and exceptional abilities.
Famous Individuals：
- 李俊（Lǐ Jùn）
- Lǐ Jùn: A well-known actor recognized for his outstanding performances in various films and television dramas, with his representative work “Love O2O” being particularly beloved by audiences.
- 陈俊（Chén Jùn）
- Chén Jùn: A renowned scientist specializing in information technology research, he has published numerous important papers contributing to technological advancement.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “俊” symbolizes excellence and talent, conveying a longing for outstanding qualities.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen for their positive connotations, hoping that children will possess graceful appearances and exceptional talents.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in the arts and entertainment fields, showcasing an extraordinary charm and charisma.
10. 旭 (Xù)
Meaning of the Name:
- The character “旭” (Xù) means the rising sun, symbolizing hope and brightness, often used to describe the beginning of new life and hope.
Famous Individuals：
- 李旭（Lǐ Xù）
- Lǐ Xù: A well-known entrepreneur who founded a rapidly growing startup focused on environmental protection and sustainable development. His success story inspires many young entrepreneurs.
- 王旭（Wáng Xù）
- Wáng Xù: A famous athlete who won gold medals in international competitions, celebrated for his positive spirit and hard work, becoming a role model for many young people.
- 陈旭（Chén Xù）
- Chén Xù: A well-known musician whose work “Dawn of Hope” conveys beautiful expectations for the future, loved by many music fans.
Cultural Background：
- In Chinese culture, “旭” symbolizes new beginnings and hope, conveying beautiful aspirations for the future.
Naming Customs：
- In Chinese culture, names are often chosen for their positive meanings, hoping that children will have a bright future.
Usage Scenarios：
- This name is suitable for all age groups, especially in the arts and sports fields, showcasing a vibrant and energetic character.