苏婉 (Su wan)
Origin of the surname: The Su surname originated from descendants of Su Shen, a minister of the Yellow Emperor. Su Shi (Su Dongpo) was a Song Dynasty writer, poet, painter, calligrapher, and statesman.
Meaning: Graceful, gentle, tactful, elegant.
Gender: Female
Source: The name "Wan" (婉) originates from classical Chinese literature and philosophy. It is derived from the concept of "温婉" (wēn wǎn), which embodies gentleness, gracefulness, and subtle elegance. In the *Shijing* (Book of Songs), one of China's earliest poetry collections, the term "婉" is used to describe virtuous femininity and refined demeanor. Additionally, the *Zuozhuan* (Commentary of Zuo) highlights "婉而成章" (wǎn ér chéng zhāng), praising the ability to express ideas with tact and artistry. The character itself combines the radical for "woman" (女) with "宛" (wǎn), evoking imagery of softness and harmony. Historically, it symbolized Confucian ideals of cultivated humility and poetic restraint.
About your English name:
Name: Melanie
Meaning: Melanie means "dark" or "black-haired," derived from the Greek word "melas" (μέλας).
Origin: The name Melanie is of Greek origin, derived from the word "melas" (μέλας), meaning "dark" or "black." It evolved from the Greek name "Melania" (Μελανία), a feminine form of "Melanos," referencing dark features like hair or complexion. The name gained prominence through early Christian saints, such as Saint Melanie the Elder and Saint Melanie the Younger, Roman noblewomen who became ascetics. It spread across Europe in the Middle Ages and became popular in English-speaking countries during the 20th century. Variants include Mélanie (French) and Melania (Latin/Italian).
Story: The name Melanie is of Greek origin, derived from the word "melania" (μελανία), meaning "darkness" or "black," from "melas" (μέλας), which translates to "black" or "dark." In ancient Greek culture, the name likely referenced physical traits like dark hair or complexion, though it later took on symbolic associations with mystery, depth, or elegance.
The name gained prominence through early Christian saints, notably *Saint Melania the Elder* (4th–5th century) and her granddaughter *Saint Melania the Younger*, Roman noblewomen who devoted their lives to charity and monasticism. Their veneration helped spread the name across Europe.
In modern times, Melanie became popular in English-speaking countries during the 20th century, peaking in the 1970s–80s. It evokes a classic yet approachable image, bolstered by figures like singer Melanie Safka ("Brand New Key") and actress Melanie Griffith. Variants include *Melania* (notably borne by Melania Trump) and spellings like *Melany*. Nicknames such as *Mel* or *Lanie* add versatility. The name balances historical gravitas with a gentle, melodic sound.