What does Su mean and where does it come from?
The name Su can be found in various East Asian cultures. In China, Su (苏) is a common surname and can also mean 'to revive' or 'to awaken'. In Korea, Su (수) often represents a wish for longevity. In Japan, it can signify assistance or support. Due to its simplicity and elegance, Su is often favored
Cultural significance
Su has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in China-speaking communities, where it reflects values of chinese.
Peak popularity
Reached #2464 in 1957 — currently #800 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
China-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Su?
Su works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Su Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Su Rose
Floral · soft ending
Su Claire
French influence · crisp
Su Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Su right now?
Holding steady — currently #800 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #800 | 1,400 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #805 | 1,380 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #810 | 1,350 | ▲ up 14422 · +26900% births |
| 2020 | #15232 | 5 | ▼ down 7581 · -67% births |
| 2015 | #7651 | 15 | ▲ up 3701 · +67% births |
| 2010 | #11352 | 9 | ▲ up 1829 · +29% births |
| 2005 | #13181 | 7 | ▼ down 1211 |
| 2000 | #11970 | 7 | ▼ down 3764 · -30% births |
| 1995 | #8206 | 10 | ▼ down 193 |
| 1990 | #8013 | 10 | ▼ down 932 · +11% births |
| 1985 | #7081 | 9 | ▲ up 526 · +13% births |
| 1980 | #7607 | 8 | ▼ down 1936 · -20% births |
| 1975 | #5671 | 10 | ▼ down 106 · +11% births |
| 1970 | #5565 | 9 | ▲ up 1340 · +80% births |
| 1965 | #6905 | 5 | — |
The story of Su
Su entered American naming records in 1935 and has been in use for over 89 years. With 711 total births recorded, Su remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4202 in 1935 to #800 in 2023. Su is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Su in 1957:
Su by decade
Su peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 13 | |
| 1940s | 91 | |
| 1950s ★ | 141 | |
| 1960s | 91 | |
| 1970s | 69 | |
| 1980s | 82 | |
| 1990s | 72 | |
| 2000s | 61 | |
| 2010s | 86 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎Su has only 711 total recorded births since 1935 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What names sound and feel like Su?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Su also consider these
Common questions about the name Su
What does the name Su mean?
Su means "Chinese" — a name rooted in China tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Su?
Su is currently ranked #800 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Su?
Su originates from China tradition. China names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Su sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Su flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Su ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Su more of a girl or boy name?
Su is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.