Thomas in Chinese
Origin: Aramaic
Meaning: twin
The standard Chinese transliteration of Thomas, pronounced Tuō Mǎ Sī. The characters are chosen for sound: 托 (tuō, "to entrust; support"), 马 (mǎ, "horse"), 斯 (sī, "this (phonetic 's')"). Native speakers will immediately recognize it as the name Thomas.
Character Breakdown
Note: Reads as the name "Thomas" to native speakers; the characters are chosen for sound, so don't expect a poetic meaning. Traditional form 託馬斯 differs from simplified 托马斯; pick one script and keep it consistent. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
A Chinese-style given name inspired by the meaning of Thomas ("twin"), expressing elegance and good character: 浩 (hào, "vast, grand") + 宇 (yǔ, "universe; eaves").
Character Breakdown
Note: A meaning-based Chinese given name; it will not sound like your English name, so pair it with an explanation if that matters to you. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Opens with 托 (tuō, "to entrust; support"), which echoes the first sound of Thomas (Tuō), and adds 轩 (xuān, "lofty; carriage with canopy") for elegance and good character. It reads like a natural Chinese given name with a nod to your English one.
Character Breakdown
Note: Looks and sounds like a genuine Chinese given name while still echoing your name; a popular choice for tattoos. Traditional form 託軒 differs from simplified 托轩; pick one script and keep it consistent. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write Thomas in Chinese?
The most common way is 托马斯 (traditional: 託馬斯), pronounced Tuō Mǎ Sī. This is the standard phonetic transliteration you would see in Chinese media and translations.
What does 托马斯 mean?
托马斯 is a sound-based transliteration, so as a whole it simply means "Thomas". Individually: 托 (tuō) = to entrust; support; 马 (mǎ) = horse; 斯 (sī) = this (phonetic 's'). If you want real meaning, try 浩宇 (Hào Yǔ), inspired by the meaning of Thomas: "twin".
Which Chinese name for Thomas is best for a tattoo?
Choose 托马斯 if you want people to recognize your name, 浩宇 if you prefer meaning over sound, or 托轩 for a natural-sounding Chinese name that still echoes Thomas. Whatever you pick, use a calligraphy font and ask a native speaker to check the final design.