A Chinese word originally from the region of Chen (Henan) in China. One of the earliest rulers was named Marquis of Chen and later descendants adopted the Chen surname. It is one of the most common surnames in eastern China. In Mandarin Chinese language it is ‘Chen’ and in Cantonese Chinese language it is ‘Chan.’

Most Chen families were farmers and laborers.

Locations in the United States with many Chen families is California, New York and New Jersey. In England the counties of Warwickshire and Lancashire have high population of Chen families. In China it represents 20% of all surnames. It is the most popular surname in Singapore and Taiwan.

Famous: Fala Chen (Hong Kong actress and model), Peter P. Chen (computer scientist), Joyce Chen (Chinese-American chef and restaurateur), Robert Chen (violinist with Chicago Orchestra), Steve Chen (co-founder of YouTube) and Julie Chen (television personality and news anchor).