柏
bǎi
Meaning
cypress, evergreen endurance
Five Elements
wood
Gender
Male
Strokes
9
Meaning & Cultural Context
In Chinese tradition, the cypress (柏) is revered as one of the 'Three Friends of Winter' (岁寒三友), alongside pine and bamboo, symbolizing perseverance through adversity. The evergreen nature of the cypress represents enduring vitality and moral integrity that remains steadfast through seasons of hardship. Ancient texts celebrate the cypress for its resilience—it bends but never breaks in wind, and its wood is prized for its durability and fragrance.
Using in Chinese Names
Chinese parents often choose 柏 for sons to embody qualities of steadfastness, moral strength, and quiet dignity. The character conveys aspirations for the child to remain resilient through life's challenges while maintaining inner calm and integrity. It is particularly favored in scholarly or traditional families who value Confucian virtues of perseverance and principled character.
Personality & Impression
Individuals named with 柏 typically suggest someone of quiet strength—steadfast in their values, emotionally resilient, and possessing a calm, grounded presence that others find reassuring.
For Foreigners
For non-Chinese individuals using 柏 in a name, be aware that it carries traditional masculine connotations and may be perceived as somewhat formal or classical. The pronunciation 'bǎi' sounds similar to 'bye' in English, which can be an easy mnemonic aid.
Style & Personality
Popular Name Combinations
Common two-character names that include 柏:
cypress, evergreen endurance, unity, singular, whole
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, strong, vigorous, tiny
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, arrive, overlook
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, righteousness, loyalty
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, well-behaved, cute, obedient
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, cloud, freedom, dreamlike
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, also, likewise (literary)
traditional, nature
cypress, evergreen endurance, graceful, she
traditional, nature
Build a Chinese Name With 柏
If you like the character 柏 (bǎi - cypress, evergreen endurance), you can use it as the starting point for a personalized Chinese name.
Create My Chinese Name with 柏