Family Name: The surname 严 (Yán) originates from the state of Chu during the Spring and Autumn period. It is said that descendants of King Zhuang of Chu took the surname 庄 (Zhuāng), which was later changed to 严 (Yán) to avoid the name taboo of Emperor Ming of Han. Another theory suggests that 严 (Yán) stems from the姜 (Jiāng) clan, descendants of the legendary Yan Emperor. Throughout history, many intellectuals and scholars have borne this surname, such as the Tang Dynasty poet Yan Wei and the Song Dynasty literary figure Yan Yu.
Given Name: Yan Shi signifies a person of outstanding intelligence and noble character, symbolizing wisdom and integrity.