OuYang

OuYang is a Chinese compound surname written 欧阳 in simplified Chinese and 歐陽 in traditional Chinese. It is formed by two single-character surnames, Ou (欧/歐) and Yang (阳/陽), and is commonly romanized as Ouyang. The surname is well documented in Chinese history and appears across a wide range of regions and communities.

Origin and distribution theories about OuYang vary. It is often described as a toponymic surname originating from an ancient place name, with later adoption by families linked to that locality. Another view holds that OuYang emerged when two separate lineages or surnames were joined into a double surname, a practice noted in several ancient Chinese genealogies. Today, OuYang is a recognized compound surname among Han Chinese and is found in many overseas Chinese communities as well. In modern times, it is encountered in various fields such as government, academia, literature, and the arts.

Usage and variants. In Mandarin-speaking areas, the surname is typically written as OuYang in pinyin. In Cantonese-speaking communities, common variants include Au-yeung or Au Yeung. The name appears in historical records and literature, as well as in contemporary media and personal names around the world.

Notable bearers. The name is associated with several prominent historical figures, including Ouyang Xiu (歐陽修), a Song dynasty chancellor, scholar, and poet, and Ouyang Xun (歐陽詢), a renowned Tang dynasty calligrapher. These figures illustrate the surname’s long-standing presence in Chinese cultural and political life.