Compound surnames (复姓) are Chinese surnames consisting of two characters, unlike the more common single-character surnames. These surnames often have ancient origins and are associated with specific regions, occupations, or historical events.

Many compound surnames are derived from:

• Geographical locations (欧阳, 东方, 西门)
• Official titles (司马, 上官)
• Royal or noble designations (皇甫, 南宫)
• Philosophical or scholarly traditions (诸葛, 公羊)

While compound surnames are less common today, they hold significant cultural and historical value in Chinese naming traditions.