Grand, elegant, or lofty
In Chinese, Yao is a name of great antiquity, most famously associated with the legendary Emperor Yao, one of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors. The character typically signifies someone who is tall, eminent, or high-minded. It is a name that carries a sense of historical dignity and moral excellence.
Less common today
Yao isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #7,439 in 1995.
Eight-time NBA All-Star basketball player
Legendary Chinese ruler and one of the Five Emperors
A short-tempered but loyal soldier · Mulan
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
