“Yeoh” is most commonly a Chinese surname (family name), especially among Hokkien and Teochew speakers, and is a romanized form of the surname usually written as Yang (楊/杨) in Mandarin.

Quick meaning of “Yeoh”

  • As a surname :
    • Originates from southern Chinese dialects like Hokkien and Teochew, corresponding to the Mandarin surname Yang.
* Often found in Southeast Asia, especially among Malaysian and Singaporean Chinese communities.
  • As a given name / baby name entry :
    • Some modern name sites list “Yeoh” as a unisex name linked to Buddhism, with the meaning “to flourish” or “to thrive,” emphasizing growth and success.
* It is described as easy to pronounce (one syllable, like “yo” rhyming with “go”).

Cultural and usage notes

  • The surname “Yeoh” is tied to the broader Yang lineage, which has ancient roots in Chinese history and noble or regional origins depending on the specific character.
  • Modern profiles and dictionaries explain that “Yeoh” is one spelling of the Hokkien/Teochew pronunciation of Yang, with “Yeo” as another common variant in Southeast Asia.
  • Because of famous people (like actress Michelle Yeoh), many people now recognize “Yeoh” globally even if they are unfamiliar with its Chinese origins.

Pronunciation

  • In English contexts (e.g., UK, global media): often pronounced like “yo” / “yoh”.
  • In Singapore and Malaysia, dictionaries also give a similar one-syllable pronunciation /jo/, which still sounds like “yo”.

If you meant a specific person with the name Yeoh (for example, Michelle Yeoh or another public figure), tell me who you have in mind and I can focus on that.