Ling Surname

Surname Overview

A Rare Surname

Ling (零, líng) is a relatively rare surname in current use among both Han and Zhuang people.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Origins

Descendants of the Duke of Lingling

Mu-yu Chang of Former Yan held the title Duke of Lingling. Some descendants adopted the title as the surname Lingling, later shortening it to Ling (零) or Ling (陵); the 零 branch was pronounced líng.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Origin from the Place-name Lingling

Some inhabitants of ancient Lingling Commandery adopted their settlement's name as the surname Lingling; this Ling (零) branch was pronounced líng.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Historical Records

Genealogical Attestations

The surname Ling is included in the clan-name sections of Zheng Tongzhi and Xu Tongzhi and is described as first appearing in Xing Yuan.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Commanderies and Clan Halls

Commanderies and Hall Names

The Ling surname's commandery associations were Changli and Lingling. Its hall names included Changli Hall and Lingling Hall, the latter also called Yongshan Hall.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Migration and Distribution

Present-day Distribution

The Ling surname is found in Taiwan; in Heshan, Daxin, Shangsi, Mashan, Qinzhou, Tianlin, Pingguo, and Hengxian in Guangxi; and in Huidong, Guangdong.

Reference: 零姓_零姓的来源和历史_百家姓