Meaning & History
Putu is a Balinese given name meaning "grandchild", traditionally given to the first-born child. It is part of a sequential naming system in Bali, where birth order determines the name: Putu or Gede for the first child, Made or Kadek for the second, Nyoman or Komang for the third, and Ketut for the fourth. This system reflects the influence of Balinese Hinduism and local customs on naming practices.
While the name is widespread among Balinese Hindus, it does not have specific religious or historical bearers documented in major encyclopedic sources. The systemic use of birth-order names helps preserve family heritage as the firstborn often carries the name Putu or variations like Putu Gede or I Putu. Equivalent names exist in other Indonesian cultures, such as the Javanese Eko for firstborns.
- Meaning: "grandchild" in Balinese
- Origin: Balinese, Indonesia
- Type: First given name, traditionally for first-born child
- Usage regions: Bali (Indonesia), among Hindu communities