颖
yǐng
Meaning
clever, outstanding, sharp
Five Elements
fire
Gender
Female
Strokes
13
Meaning & Cultural Context
颖 originally referred to the tip of an ear of grain or the tip of a writing brush - the sharpest, most refined point. In classical Chinese literature and history, it evolved to mean outstanding talent and brilliance, appearing in texts describing exceptional scholars and gifted officials. The character carries connotations of sharp intelligence and refined elegance that have persisted for centuries.
Using in Chinese Names
Chinese parents frequently choose 颖 for their daughters because it conveys intelligence, quick wit, and exceptional ability. It reflects aspirations for the child to be brilliant, talented, and to stand out from the crowd. The character is particularly popular in educated and professional families who value academic achievement and creative distinction.
Personality & Impression
A person named with 颖 is often perceived as intelligent, sharp-witted, and creatively gifted - someone who thinks quickly, learns easily, and possesses a keen, analytical mind that others admire.
For Foreigners
For non-Chinese individuals, 颖 is an elegant and sophisticated choice for a name, especially for girls. It suggests intelligence and talent while remaining distinctive - not as common as some other Chinese characters, which adds to its refined appeal.
Style & Personality
Popular Name Combinations
Common two-character names that include 颖:
clever, outstanding, sharp, book, scholarly, cultured
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, also, likewise (literary)
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, by means of (classical)
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, order, peerless, human relations
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, talented, handsome, brilliant
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, origin, first, primary
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, light, glory
traditional, modern
clever, outstanding, sharp, outstanding, eminent
traditional, modern
Build a Chinese Name With 颖
If you like the character 颖 (yǐng - clever, outstanding, sharp), you can use it as the starting point for a personalized Chinese name.
Create My Chinese Name with 颖