Xiaobo

Xiaobo is a Chinese masculine given name formed from the syllables xiao and bo. The meaning varies with the chosen characters, with common combinations including 晓波 (dawn wave) and 晓博 (dawn, learned or broad). Because two-character given names are widespread in Chinese naming practice, Xiaobo appears in Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Chinese communities abroad. The standard romanization in pinyin is Xiaobo; older or non-Chinese contexts may render it as Hsiao-po or similar variants.

In etymology, the first character 晓 typically conveys dawn or knowledge, while the second character can be 波 meaning wave or 博 meaning broad, learned, or extensive. The particular choice of characters determines the specific nuance of the name, but Xiaobo generally carries positive aspirational connotations.

Notable bearer: Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波; 1955–2017) was a Chinese writer, literary critic, and human rights advocate recognized internationally for his long campaign for civil and political rights in China. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010 in recognition of his nonviolent efforts, and he died in custody in 2017 after his imprisonment related to his activism and Charter 08, a manifesto calling for reforms and greater political freedoms. His prominence has made the name Xiaobo well known outside Chinese-speaking communities.

Beyond Liu Xiaobo, the given name Xiaobo is used by other individuals in various professional fields, reflecting its common status within Chinese naming practices. The name may appear in different characters to yield different meanings, but its usage remains primarily within Chinese-speaking cultures and diaspora communities.