楷
kǎi
Meaning
model, exemplar, upright
Five Elements
wood
Gender
Male
Strokes
13
Meaning & Cultural Context
楷 is one of the four fundamental styles of Chinese calligraphy (楷书), representing the standardized 'regular script' that serves as the model for all other writing forms. The character originates from 楷树, a type of elm known for its exceptionally straight trunk, which historically symbolized moral uprightness and principled conduct in Confucian tradition.
Using in Chinese Names
Chinese parents select 楷 when they hope their son will grow into a person of exemplary character—a moral leader and role model for others. The character conveys aspirations for academic excellence, disciplined conduct, and the refinement that comes from mastery of classical arts and learning.
Personality & Impression
This character suggests a strong, principled individual with natural leadership qualities and wisdom beyond their years—someone others look to for guidance and whose conduct sets the standard for integrity.
For Foreigners
楷 is an elegant but uncommon choice in modern names, carrying sophisticated connotations of education, moral refinement, and artistic appreciation. Non-Chinese individuals using this character should know it signals high aspirations and classical Chinese values.
Style & Personality
Popular Name Combinations
Common two-character names that include 楷:
model, exemplar, upright, unity, singular, whole
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, strong, vigorous, tiny
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, arrive, overlook
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, righteousness, loyalty
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, book, scholarly, cultured
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, also, likewise (literary)
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, by means of (classical)
traditional, modern
model, exemplar, upright, great, mighty, magnificent
traditional, modern
Build a Chinese Name With 楷
If you like the character 楷 (kǎi - model, exemplar, upright), you can use it as the starting point for a personalized Chinese name.
Create My Chinese Name with 楷