Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Chen

      Origin 
      Chinese

      Meaning 
      Dawn, Morning

      Variations 
      Cheng, Chenoa, Chenille

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Chen, originating from China, holds significant historical and cultural value. Derived from the Chinese language, it symbolizes the concepts of dawn and morning. As a given name, Chen has been used for centuries, embodying the essence of new beginnings and the hope that accompanies the start of a new day. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Chinese dynasties, where it gained popularity among the noble class.

      Throughout history, the name Chen has been prominent in Chinese culture and society. Notably, it has been present in various renowned texts and poems, strengthening its significance. In modern times, the name Chen continues to be widely used, serving as a testament to the enduring nature of Chinese traditions and naming practices. It is commonly chosen as both a first name and a name, reflecting its versatility and cultural heritage.

      In contemporary China, Chen remains a popular choice for parents seeking a meaningful and culturally rich name for their children. Furthermore, in a globalized world, the name Chen has spread beyond China's borders, with individuals of Chinese descent adopting it worldwide. Its linguistic simplicity and elegant meaning have contributed to its continued appeal, making it a cherished name that resonates with both the Chinese and non-Chinese population alike. As an enduring symbol of new beginnings and the promising start of each day, the name Chen continues to hold a prominent place in both history and modern-day usage.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Chen.
      Chen

      is the most common surname for Chen.

      Chen

      is the most common spouse name for Chen.

      Carmen

      is the most common child name for Chen.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1895 is when there were the most people born with the first name Chen.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.