chan

chan · proper noun

imported

Definitions

proper noun

  1. 1.

    A common Chinese surname, particularly in Cantonese-speaking regions.

  2. 2.

    A Japanese honorific suffix meaning approximately "dear" or used for children and close friends.

Related words

See also: chang, chen

Etymology

As a surname, from Cantonese romanization of the Chinese character meaning "old" or "to display." The Japanese suffix -chan is a diminutive form of -san.