The Chinese word "Mìng" is composed of two roots "mouth" and "order" . So literally it means giving verbal order. And from this is deduced threefold meanings:

1) Order / Giving Order -
   (i) A feudal lord giving order to his subordinates. Also;
   (ii) Nominate (someone to a certain position), and furthermore;
   (iii) Give a name to someone [NB. In ancient China, people were usually surnamed by the fiefdom they were presented];
2) Destiny as ordained by Heaven at one's birth. [NB. See also glossary on "mìngyùn"];
3) Life / lifespan (which is subsequently determined by our destiny) [NB. See also glossary on "xìngmìng"].