Zhang is a common Chinese surname that ranks among the most prevalent in China. It is often romanized as "Chang" in some regions and can be found in various forms across different Chinese dialects. The character for Zhang (张) means "to stretch" or "to open," which reflects its historical significance. In addition to being a surname, Zhang is also a given name in China. Many notable individuals bear this name, including Zhang Yimou, a renowned film director known for his visually stunning movies. The name is associated with various cultural and historical figures, contributing to its popularity in Chinese society.