Chu

Chu is a term with multiple meanings in East Asia and beyond, used as a place name, a cultural designation, and a surname. In ancient China, Chu (楚) was a major state during the Zhou dynasty, located in the southern part of the realm along the Yangtze basin. It rose to prominence in the Spring and Autumn period and remained a powerful force through the Warring States until its conquest by Qin in 223 BCE. The Chu state fostered a distinct culture, arts, and political ideas that left a lasting imprint on later Chinese civilization.

In literature and culture, Chu is associated with the Chu Ci, or Songs of Chu, a major anthology linked to Chu poets such as Qu Yuan and Song Yu. The collection blends myth, ritual, and personal lament and is regarded as one of the oldest and most influential works of classical Chinese poetry. The Chu cultural sphere also contributed to regional traditions in southern China that persisted beyond the political demise of the state.

The term Chu also denotes the people and cultural area connected with the Chu state. In modern usage, Chu is a Chinese surname, most commonly representing the character 褚 (Chǔ/Chù). It may appear in various transliterations and in compound names, reflecting the historical connection to the Chu region.

Beyond China, Chu can appear in place names and as a component of personal names in East Asia, reflecting historical and linguistic ties to the Chu heritage.