Interpretation of the Weng (翁) Surname Totem

【Meaning】

The original meaning of Weng (翁) refers to the feathers on a bird's neck and head, specifically the plumage at the very top. For example, the "Baitouweng" (Light-vented Bulbul) is a bird named for the white feathers on the crown of its head. By extension, Weng evolved to mean the head of a household, a father, or an elderly, respected gentleman.

【Origins】

1. From the Si (姒) Surname: This lineage originates from Weng Nanyi, a nobleman of the ancient Xia Dynasty. His descendants adopted his name as their family name.

2. From the Ji (姬) Surname (Imperial Bestowal): Traced back to a concubine's son of King Zhao of Zhou. According to legend, the child was born with his hands clenched; when opened, the palms revealed markings resembling the character "Weng," leading the King to bestow it as his surname.

3. From a Fief Name: Also originating from the descendants of King Zhao of Zhou, who were enfeoffed in the territory of Weng. The descendants adopted the name of their fief as their surname. Weng Hong, a descendant of this line, is often regarded as the primary ancestor who settled in the southeast.

Historical & Demographic Profile

Category

Details

Founding Ancestors

Prince of King Zhao, Ji Weng, Weng Nanyi, Weng Hong

Ancestral Homeland

Dinghai, Zhejiang Province

Prefectural Mansions

Linchuan, Qiantang

Notable Hall Name

Liugui Hall (Hall of the Six Laurels)

Modern Ranking / Population

Ranked 161st / Approx. 970,000 people

Song Dynasty Ranking

Ranked 150th in the Hundred Family Surnames

Extant Genealogies

120 volumes currently preserv