Origin and Meaning of Lan

Orchid, a symbol of beauty

Origin: Chinese - The name Lan (兰) is derived from Chinese and directly translates to 'orchid'. It is often associated with beauty and refinement in Chinese culture.

• In Chinese culture, orchids are considered a symbol of elegance, purity, and beauty, making the name Lan quite poetic.
• The name Lan can be a given name for both males and females in various Asian cultures, including Vietnamese and Chinese.
• Notable bearers of the name include Lan Fengying, a prominent Chinese actress, and Lan Xichen, a character from the popular Chinese web novel 'Mo Dao Zu Shi'.
• While Lan is not overwhelmingly common in Western countries, it has a steady presence in places with significant Asian communities.
• Variations of the name include Lanh (Vietnamese) and Laney (inspired variant in English).