All about the name

Lao

Male

« The name Lao originates from China, combining 'Orchid' (elegance) and 'Fifth', signifying rarity and growth. »

#24773 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Lao is a name of Chinese origin and meaning. It is composed of two characters: "La" ( Orchid ) and "O" ( Fifth ). Therefore, the full meaning of Lao is "Fifth Orchid". The orchid represents elegance, beauty, and rarity in Chinese culture. The name Lao has been used for centuries in China, and it was often given to boys born on the fifth day of the lunar month or as a representation of the fifth child in a family. It is also considered auspicious because the number five is associated with the element Wood in Chinese astrology, which symbolizes growth and vitality. Historically, the name Lao has been carried by many notable figures in Chinese history. One famous example is Lao Tzu, a ancient philosopher who lived around 600 BCE. He was the founder of Taoism, one of China's major philosophical traditions. Another significant figure named Lao is Admiral Zheng He, a Ming dynasty mariner and explorer who made seven voyages between 1405 and 1433 to establish trade relations with countries in Southeast Asia, Southwest Asia, India, Arabia, and East Africa. Today, the name Lao continues to be popular among parents of Chinese descent who wish to honor their cultural heritage. It is also recognized internationally as a result of the global spread of Chinese culture and influence. While it is more commonly associated with males due to its traditional usage, there are no restrictions on its use for females either. In conclusion, Lao is an ancient Chinese name with a rich history and meaningful symbolism. Its elegant sound and profound meaning make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a unique and significant name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Lao since 1880

Total births
32
Total since 1880
Peak year
1985
7 births
in 1991
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years