Vietnamese surnames tell an interesting story of the nation’s rich cultural heritage, royal dynasties, and deep connection to nature.
The most common surname – Nguyễn, is linked to ancient royalty. Each name carries a unique historical significance.
Many names like Hoàng (royal), Vương (king), and Đức (virtue) directly connect to Vietnamese nobility and moral principles.
Last names can help people trace their family history and connect with their ancestors. They can reveal where ancestors lived and what they did.
The way names are combined is also meaningful. “Thị” in a woman’s name and “Văn” in scholarly names show their place in society.
List of Vietnamese Last Names and Their Origins
1. Trần
Origin: This surname originates from the royal Trần dynasty, which ruled Vietnam in the 13th and 14th centuries.
2. Lê
Origin: Named after the Lê dynasty, which was one of the longest-ruling dynasties in Vietnamese history.
3. Phạm
Origin: This surname has been common in Northern Vietnam and is thought to have historical royal connections.
4. Huỳnh
Origin: A surname with roots in the Southern regions, also related to the historical Huỳnh family.
5. Hoàng
Origin: Originates from the name of the royal family in ancient Vietnam, meaning “royal” or “imperial.”
6. Võ
Origin: Known for its historical ties to warriors, it is a surname with strong military associations.
7. Đặng
Origin: Thought to have originated from the historical Đặng clan, with roots in the North.
8. Bùi
Origin: A surname that likely comes from the ancient Bùi family, known for their farming background.
9. Đỗ
Origin: Often associated with a powerful, ancient Vietnamese family, this surname has a deep historical presence.
10. Mai
Origin: This surname could be derived from a type of flower in Vietnam, symbolizing beauty and grace.
11. Lý
Origin: The Lý surname originates from the Lý dynasty, known for its significant influence in medieval Vietnam.
12. Tạ
Origin: A common surname in Vietnam with ancient family connections, often found in the Central regions.
13. Ngô
Origin: Historically, the Ngô surname is linked to the famous Ngô dynasty, an important time in Vietnamese history.
14. Phan
Origin: A surname commonly found in Southern Vietnam, it is linked to families involved in the military or government.
15. Thái
Origin: Often seen in Vietnamese royal family names, it means “great” or “grand.”
16. Trương
Origin: This surname comes from ancient Vietnam and is often linked to military leaders and warriors.
17. Lâm
Origin: A surname with strong connections to nature, particularly trees and forests.
18. Nguyễn Thị
Origin: A common combination of the Nguyễn surname with “Thị,” often used for women in Vietnam.
19. Vũ
Origin: This surname originates from ancient Vietnamese families and is related to warriors and military officers.
20. Cù
Origin: A surname with ancient roots, believed to be linked to families from the southern region of Vietnam.
21. Tông
Origin: A surname that signifies ancestral pride and connection, often linked to the elite classes of Vietnam.
22. Kiều
Origin: This surname is often tied to historical poet families and means “graceful” or “charming.”
23. Cao
Origin: Associated with nobility and high-ranking officials in ancient Vietnam.
24. Hồng
Origin: Often linked to the meaning of “red” or “glory,” and connected with noble families.
25. Lương
Origin: This surname originates from the ancient Lương family, known for their wisdom and influence.
26. Quách
Origin: Connected to the historical Quách family, known for their contributions to politics and war.
27. Phan Văn
Origin: Often used as a compound surname, it includes “Văn,” which means culture or scholarly.
28. Lê Thị
Origin: A common Vietnamese surname for women, combining “Lê” with “Thị” meaning woman.
29. Châu
Origin: This surname could originate from the Châu region and is associated with strength and power.
30. Vương
Origin: This surname means “king” or “ruler,” often associated with royalty or leadership.
31. Tô
Origin: Often associated with ancient noble families in Vietnam, this surname has a long history.
32. Đinh
Origin: A surname tied to the famous Đinh dynasty, a period of consolidation and unity in Vietnam.
33. Lục
Origin: This surname has ties to ancient military leaders and families and often signifies “six” in reference to numbers.
34. Mai Thị
Origin: A common combination used in southern Vietnam, indicating both a flower and a woman’s name.
35. Cảnh
Origin: Originating from a historical family name, the surname symbolizes a watchful protector.
36. Trí
Origin: Connected to intellectual and scholarly families, symbolizing wisdom and thoughtfulness.
37. Quang
Origin: Often meaning “bright” or “shining,” this surname reflects positivity and leadership.
38. Hảo
Origin: A surname representing goodness, kindness, and virtue.
39. Nhâm
Origin: A surname with a connection to astrology and the 10-year cycle in Vietnamese culture.
40. Tưởng
Origin: Signifying respect and remembrance, this surname was associated with honor and noble birth.
41. Kim
Origin: Meaning “gold” or “precious metal,” this surname symbolizes wealth and importance.
42. Mã
Origin: This surname was historically linked to military leaders and was used to signify “horse.”
43. Hoàng Thị
Origin: A common combination indicating both royalty and femininity, especially in Southern Vietnam.
44. Hứa
Origin: Originating from families that were closely involved in trade and merchant activities.
45. Lê Văn
Origin: Commonly used to signify scholarly or intellectual families.
46. Phú
Origin: Derived from families that were traditionally wealthy or influential in society.
47. Chí
Origin: Often tied to scholarly or learned families, symbolizing strong resolve and intellect.
48. Tào
Origin: A surname with ancient Chinese roots, indicating connections with the elite.
49. Triệu
Origin: A surname with historical links to military families and regions in the northern part of Vietnam.
50. Bạch
Origin: The surname Bạch is commonly associated with the color white, signifying purity and integrity.
51. Tình
Origin: Often signifying deep affection, this surname is linked to families who prioritize relationships.
52. Bùi Thị
Origin: A common combination indicating both the Bùi surname and womanhood in Vietnamese culture.
53. Dương
Origin: Derived from the Dương family, this surname has historical military and noble connections.
54. Nghiêm
Origin: Linked to ancient families known for their strength and discipline.
55. Vũ Thị
Origin: A common female surname often combined with “Thị,” meaning a woman in Vietnamese.
56. Khoa
Origin: Tied to intellectual and scholarly families, often associated with examinations.
57. Lê Duy
Origin: A common Vietnamese name where “Duy” means “continuation” or “lasting.”
58. Tạ Thị
Origin: A common combination in Southern Vietnam, indicating both a surname and gender.
59. Diệp
Origin: A surname connected to families who valued harmony and balance.
60. Tiến
Origin: Symbolizing progress or moving forward, this surname is tied to ambitious families.
61. Giang
Origin: Tied to rivers and water bodies, this surname suggests life and vitality.
62. Nguyên
Origin: Associated with the founding dynasty of Vietnam, indicating historical significance.
63. Mạnh
Origin: A surname meaning strength or power, often found in families of military or leadership.
64. Kỳ
Origin: This surname comes from an ancient family and signifies “auspicious” or “lucky.”
65. Tráng
Origin: Symbolizing strength and stability, this surname is linked to old warrior families.
66. Tuấn
Origin: Meaning “handsome” or “talented,” this surname is associated with good looks and intelligence.
67. Tín
Origin: Tied to faithfulness and trust, often found in families valuing loyalty.
68. Kiên
Origin: This surname means “firm” or “steadfast,” often linked to determined families.
69. Phước
Origin: Associated with luck and blessings, this surname is often tied to good fortune.
70. Nguyễn
Origin: The most common Vietnamese surname, typically linked to royalty or high-ranking officials.
71. Khánh
Origin: A surname meaning “joy” or “happiness,” signifying positive energy.
72. Lan
Origin: Linked to the orchid flower, representing beauty and elegance.
73. Thủy
Origin: A surname derived from water, symbolizing life and flow.
74. Duy
Origin: Meaning “only” or “single,” this surname commonly symbolizes uniqueness.
75. Hải
Origin: Tied to the sea, symbolizing vastness and adventure.
76. Ngọc
Origin: A surname representing precious stones, often signifying beauty and rarity.
77. Lý Thị
Origin: A common surname for women, combining “Lý” with “Thị,” indicating a woman of noble birth.
78. Thanh
Origin: This surname means “clear” or “pure,” often linked to honesty and simplicity.
79. Sơn
Origin: Derived from the mountain, symbolizing strength and stability.
80. Linh
Origin: Tied to spirituality and connection with the divine, symbolizing purity.
81. Phúc
Origin: Associated with good fortune and blessings, this surname represents happiness.
82. Hưng
Origin: Tied to prosperity and success, this surname symbolizes growth and wealth.
83. Nhân
Origin: Meaning “benevolent” or “human,” this surname reflects kindness and humanity.
84. Bảo
Origin: A surname meaning “precious” or “treasure,” often associated with valuable families.
85. Thịnh
Origin: Signifying prosperity and flourishing, this surname is linked to wealth and abundance.
86. Lộc
Origin: Often linked to good luck or fortune, this surname symbolizes success and blessings.
87. Đông
Origin: Derived from the East, this surname symbolizes new beginnings and progress.
88. Vĩnh
Origin: Meaning “eternal” or “perpetual,” this surname signifies longevity and enduring strength.
89. Tố
Origin: This surname symbolizes elegance and grace, often used for noble families.
90. Quyền
Origin: This surname means power or authority, often linked to influential families.
91. Tiệp
Origin: Meaning “smooth” or “harmonious,” this surname represents peace and balance.
92. Hạo
Origin: Signifying “bright” or “radiant,” this surname represents intelligence and leadership.
93. Bích
Origin: Derived from jade or precious stones, this surname symbolizes purity and beauty.
94. Tường
Origin: Meaning “wall” or “safe,” this surname symbolizes protection and security.
95. Văn
Origin: Often used in combination with other names, “Văn” signifies culture and scholarly pursuits.
96. Sỹ
Origin: Linked to scholars and intellectuals, this surname represents knowledge and wisdom.
97. Long
Origin: This surname is associated with dragons and represents power, strength, and nobility.
98. Linh
Origin: A surname meaning “spirit” or “soul,” often linked to spiritual connection.
99. Khang
Origin: Meaning “peaceful” or “healthy,” this surname symbolizes well-being and prosperity.
100. Thiên
Origin: This surname signifies “heavenly” or “divine,” representing spiritual connection and wisdom.
101. Thao
Origin: Associated with grace and gentleness, this surname symbolizes kindness and elegance.
102. Vũ Minh
Origin: A common combination of the surname Vũ with Minh, meaning “bright” or “intelligent.”
103. Vân
Origin: Derived from the word “cloud,” symbolizing fluidity and grace.
104. Tín
Origin: This surname symbolizes trust and faithfulness, reflecting loyalty and belief.
105. Đan
Origin: Tied to the meaning “red” or “brilliant,” representing vitality and energy.
106. Hạnh
Origin: Associated with good fortune and happiness, this surname symbolizes virtue.
107. Lĩnh
Origin: Signifying leadership or governance, this surname is linked to rulers and commanders.
108. Ký
Origin: Meaning “record” or “chronicle,” this surname is associated with those who document history.
109. Lê Thị Lan
Origin: A combination indicating both the Lê surname and the flower “Lan” symbolizing beauty.
110. Kiên
Origin: Derived from the word “steadfast,” symbolizing firmness and determination.
111. Tới
Origin: Meaning “arrive” or “come,” this surname represents arrival and progress.
112. Hòa
Origin: This surname represents peace, balance, and harmony in life.
113. Lý Quang
Origin: A combination symbolizing brightness and brilliance, often used by intellectual families.
114. Mạnh Quân
Origin: A surname combining strength and leadership, symbolizing power and responsibility.
115. Sơn Thị
Origin: A common combination for women, linking the surname “Sơn” (mountain) with “Thị” (woman).
116. Huy
Origin: Tied to light or brightness, this surname symbolizes radiance and brilliance.
117. Nhật
Origin: Derived from “sun,” representing brightness, vitality, and energy.
118. Tuấn Kiệt
Origin: A combination of the names Tuấn (handsome) and Kiệt (outstanding), representing excellence.
119. Đăng
Origin: Signifying brightness or light, this surname symbolizes hope and optimism.
120. An
Origin: This surname means “peaceful” or “safe,” reflecting tranquility and security.
121. Cường
Origin: A surname meaning “strong” or “powerful,” symbolizing resilience and endurance.
122. Hạnh Phúc
Origin: A combination symbolizing happiness and fulfillment, linked to joy and well-being.
123. Hoàng An
Origin: Combining “Hoàng” (royal) and “An” (peace), symbolizing a peaceful and royal presence.
124. Đoàn
Origin: Linked to a family name that symbolizes unity or togetherness.
125. Phong
Origin: Derived from wind, symbolizing freedom, flow, and adaptability.
126. Độc
Origin: Meaning “single” or “unique,” representing individuality and distinction.
127. Quyên
Origin: Associated with the will or determination, representing persistence and strength.
128. Tập
Origin: This surname means “practice” or “exercise,” representing focus and improvement.
129. Chính
Origin: Tied to the meaning “correct” or “just,” symbolizing honesty and righteousness.
130. Thiện
Origin: Derived from the word “good” or “virtuous,” reflecting kindness and moral integrity.
131. Bình
Origin: This surname means “peace” or “calm,” representing stability and tranquility.
132. Cường Đoàn
Origin: A combination signifying strong unity and leadership.
133. Lê Hoàng
Origin: Combining the royal “Hoàng” with the Lê family name, symbolizing a noble heritage.
Conclusion
Vietnamese last names carry rich histories and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the heritage of Vietnam.
From common names like Nguyễn to rarer ones, these surnames reflect Vietnam’s social structure and family values.
Understanding these names provides a deeper connection to Vietnamese traditions and identity.
If you’re intrigued by Vietnamese culture, explore its charming customs and history on our blog.
And don’t forget to share your favorite Vietnamese last names in the comments below!
