Bǔ Surname

Surname Overview

The Bu surname is pronounced bǔ. It is a currently rare surname, recorded in the Clan Records sections of the Zheng Tongzhi and Qing Tongzhi, with its earliest appearance in the Xingyuan.

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Origins

Ancient and Spring and Autumn Origins

One account traces the surname to Bu State, also called Busui, during the reign of Emperor Yan, with descendants adopting the state name or an ancestor's name. Another traces it to Bu District of Zheng during the Spring and Autumn period, whose name was adopted by descendants of Gongsun Qiao after he received the fief.

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Ethnic Origins

The Bu surname is also found among Mongolian, Miao, Gaoshan, and Tujia groups. During the Ming dynasty, members of the Mongolian Nuhesu clan are recorded as adopting Bu as a sinicized surname based on its Chinese meaning.

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Historical Records

Documentary Attestation

The Tongzhi, Clan Records states “Bu, a surname”; the Zhengzitong records the Tang eunuch Bu Zhen; and the Qin Policy, Part One of the Zhanguoce contains “Shennong attacked Busui.”

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Commanderies and Clan Halls

Commandery and Hall Name

The Bu surname's commandery is Xingyang. Its hall name is Xingyang Hall, also called Bu State Hall.

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Migration and Distribution

Geographical Distribution

Members of the Bu surname are distributed in Kaifeng, Henan; Fuling and Nanchuan, Chongqing; Zhijiang, Hunan; Chengdu and Suining, Sichuan; Yangjiang and Guangzhou, Guangdong; Changzhou, Jiangsu; Tuoketuo, Inner Mongolia; Quanzhou, Fujian; and Taiwan.

Reference: 补姓_补姓的来源和历史_百家姓