Ruolan若兰

/RWOH-lahn/

Ruolan is a Chinese girl's name pronounced /RWOH-lahn/. Possessing a grace and fragrance like that of an orchid flower.

Meaning of Ruolan

Possessing a grace and fragrance like that of an orchid flower.

The name Ruolan (若兰) is derived from the Classical Chinese characters 'ruo' (若), meaning 'like' or 'as if', and 'lan' (兰), meaning 'orchid'. In Chinese culture, the orchid is one of the 'Four Gentlemen' plants, symbolizing nobility, elegance, and refined character.

Origin
Chinese
Pronunciation
/RWOH-lahn/

Cultural background

It is a traditional feminine name common in mainland China, Taiwan, and the Chinese diaspora, often chosen to convey a sense of classical beauty and intellectual grace.

Variations & nicknames

  • Ruo-lan
  • 蘭
  • Lan
  • Luo-lan
  • Ruolann

Famous people named Ruolan

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Hu Ruolan

    Prominent Chinese journalist and international correspondent.

    Journalism · 1930s–1940s

  • Sumner Redstone (born Ruolan)

    While not the media mogul, Ruolan is the Chinese name used by notable diaspora figures such as artist Ruolan Zhang.

    Arts · Modern

  • Ma Ruolan

    A character in the popular Chinese television drama 'Scarlet Heart' (Bu Bu Jing Xin).

    Film/Television · 2011

Frequently asked about Ruolan

What does Ruolan mean?
Ruolan means 'like an orchid,' representing grace, fragrance, and the noble qualities associated with the orchid flower in Chinese culture.
How do you pronounce Ruolan?
It is pronounced 'Ruo-lan'. In Pinyin, 'ruò' is a falling-rising tone (similar to 'raw' but starting higher) and 'lán' is a rising tone (similar to the 'lan' in 'land').
Is Ruolan a boy or girl name?
Ruolan is almost exclusively used as a girl's name due to the feminine association with the orchid flower.
Is Ruolan a common name?
While it is a classic and recognizable name in Chinese-speaking regions, it is considered elegant and traditional rather than a modern top-trending name.

Love Ruolan? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Chinese names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Ruolan with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Chinese names

See all Chinese names