Woo is a unique and distinctive name of Chinese origin. It is derived from the Chinese surname 吳, which is pronounced as "Wu" in Mandarin and "Ng" in Cantonese. This surname is one of the most common in China and has been in existence for over two thousand years.
The name Woo does not have a specific meaning associated with it, as it is primarily a surname rather than a given name. However, it can be found in various Chinese compounds that do have meanings such as "joyful" or "happy." For example, the compound 吳喜 (Wu Xi) means "Woo Joy."
The Woo family has a rich history dating back to the Spring and Autumn period (771-476 BC). According to legend, the founder of the Woo clan was a brave warrior named Wu Huo, who served under King Zhuang of Chu. During a battle against the state of Wu, Wu Huo fought valiantly and impressed King Zhuang with his courage and skill. As a reward, the king granted Wu Huo the privilege to carry on his name as a surname.
Over time, the Woo family grew in influence and power, producing many notable figures throughout Chinese history. Some famous individuals bearing the Woo surname include Woo Mei-fu, a prominent businessman and philanthropist in Hong Kong, and Woo Chan-haw, a renowned martial artist and actor.
Today, Woo remains a popular name among the Chinese community, both within China and abroad. Although it is not typically used as a given name, those who bear this unique surname often take pride in their lineage and heritage. Despite its lack of specific meaning, Woo carries with it a rich historical legacy and cultural significance for many families.
"In the United States, the name Woo experienced a consistent level of popularity during the years 1978 and 1981, with five births recorded each year. This resulted in a total of ten babies being named Woo over these two years combined."