廉
lián
Meaning
incorruptible, honest
Five Elements
metal
Gender
Male
Strokes
13
Meaning & Cultural Context
The character 廉 carries deep moral significance in Chinese tradition, representing integrity and resistance to corruption. Historically, it became associated with 廉政 (clean governance) and 廉洁 (honesty and uprightness), core values in Confucian ethics. In the Warring States period, the famous general 廉颇 (Lián Pō) exemplified martial honor and loyalty, further cementing the character's association with moral strength and virtue.
Using in Chinese Names
Chinese parents often choose 廉 for sons to instill virtues of honesty, integrity, and incorruptibility. The character conveys aspirations for the child to grow into a person of strong moral principles who cannot be swayed by greed or temptation. It reflects hope for a dignified, upright life path—someone who maintains personal integrity even in difficult circumstances.
Personality & Impression
This character suggests a person of quiet strength, unwavering principles, and calm determination. Someone named with 廉 is often perceived as trustworthy, disciplined, and possessing a strong sense of justice.
For Foreigners
For non-Chinese using this character in names, it conveys serious moral weight—be aware it may come across as quite formal or traditional. The metal element adds a sense of resilience, making it particularly suitable for those wanting to project strength of character.
Style & Personality
Popular Name Combinations
Common two-character names that include 廉:
incorruptible, honest, unity, singular, whole
traditional, modern
incorruptible, honest, strong, vigorous, tiny
traditional, traditional
incorruptible, honest, arrive, overlook
traditional, traditional
incorruptible, honest, righteousness, loyalty
traditional, traditional
incorruptible, honest, well-behaved, cute, obedient
traditional
incorruptible, honest, cloud, freedom, dreamlike
traditional, nature
incorruptible, honest, also, likewise (literary)
traditional, poetic
incorruptible, honest, graceful, she
traditional, traditional
Build a Chinese Name With 廉
If you like the character 廉 (lián - incorruptible, honest), you can use it as the starting point for a personalized Chinese name.
Create My Chinese Name with 廉