诚
chéng
Meaning
sincere, honest, integrity
Five Elements
metal
Gender
Male
Strokes
8
Meaning & Cultural Context
诚 represents one of the most fundamental virtues in Chinese Confucian tradition. The character combines the radical for speech (言) with 成 (chéng - to become/complete), literally meaning 'words that have become complete' - implying that true sincerity is when one's words match one's actions. In ancient Chinese philosophy, 诚 is considered the foundation of moral integrity and is central to Confucian teachings about self-cultivation and social harmony.
Using in Chinese Names
Chinese parents often choose 诚 for their sons' names to instill values of honesty and reliability. The character conveys aspirations for the child to grow into a trustworthy, principled individual who stands by their word. It is particularly popular in scholarly families or those emphasizing moral education, and pairs well with characters suggesting wisdom or leadership.
Personality & Impression
The character suggests someone who is principled, dependable, and possesses inner wisdom combined with warmth - a person whose integrity earns respect while their genuine nature attracts trust.
For Foreigners
For non-Chinese people, 诚 in a name signals that the person values honesty and authenticity. It carries a classic, dignified quality that transcends cultural boundaries, making it a meaningful choice for those seeking to honor Chinese naming traditions or convey deep personal integrity.
Style & Personality
Popular Name Combinations
Common two-character names that include 诚:
sincere, honest, integrity, east, rising direction
traditional, modern
sincere, honest, integrity, abundant, fruitful, plentiful
traditional, traditional
sincere, honest, integrity, cinnabar red, devoted heart
traditional, traditional
sincere, honest, integrity, joy, music, happiness
traditional, traditional
sincere, honest, integrity, well-behaved, cute, obedient
traditional
sincere, honest, integrity, book, scholarly, cultured
traditional, traditional
sincere, honest, integrity, also, likewise (literary)
traditional, poetic
sincere, honest, integrity, by means of (classical)
traditional, modern
Build a Chinese Name With 诚
If you like the character 诚 (chéng - sincere, honest, integrity), you can use it as the starting point for a personalized Chinese name.
Create My Chinese Name with 诚