Zhao

Zhao (pinyin: zhao4, simplified Chinese: 赵, traditional Chinese: 趙) is a common Chinese family name. The origin of the family name came from the people of State of Zhao in ancient China. It could also be spelt as Chao.

The family name can be transliterated to Chiu or Jiu in Cantonese.

Zhao can also be a less common family name 兆 (Siu in Cantonese.)

Prominent people with family name 趙

• The Zhao royals of the Song Dynasty.
• Rosalind Chao, an American actor.
• Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of Labour in United States.
• Zhao Yun, a general during the era of Three Kingdoms.
• Zhao Mengfu, a famous calligrapher.
• Zhao Ziyang, recent Chinese politician, placed under house arrest after symphathizing the Tiananmen Square protests.

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Zhao is also the shorthand of State of Zhao during the end of Spring and Autumn Period.