Xiao

Xiao is a pinyin transliteration that can refer to several Chinese words, names, and cultural items. Its meaning depends on the character used: 小, 孝, or 箫, among others. It is also encountered as a surname and in personal names.

As 小 (xiǎo), it means small or little and is a common component in many phrases and compounds (for example, xiǎohái “child” or xiǎoxīn “careful”).

As 孝 (xiào), xiao denotes filial piety, a central virtue in Confucian ethics. Filial piety emphasizes respect, care, and obedience toward one’s parents and ancestors and is considered foundational to social harmony.

As 箫 (xiāo) the xiao is a traditional Chinese vertical end-blown flute, typically made of bamboo. It is used in classical Chinese music, both solo and in ensembles, and is valued for its mellow, airy timbre. It is distinct from other flutes such as the dizi (transverse flute).

As a surname, Xiao can be rendered by several Chinese characters, most commonly 蕭/萧 or 肖. The different characters indicate distinct family lineages, but are pronounced the same in Mandarin.

In modern usage, Xiao also appears as a given name and as part of composite names; it is found in many East Asian contexts and among overseas Chinese communities.