Last Name Putin

Learn more about the origin of the last name Putin

The meaning and origin of the last name Putin

The surname Putin (Путин) is of Russian origin, derived from the Old Slavic word "put" meaning "path" or "road". It was originally an occupational name for someone who worked on roads, a road builder or repairer. The name's widespread distribution across Russia indicates that it was likely one of the most common trades in ancient Russian society. Over time, it has evolved to become one of the most prominent surnames in modern Russia. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Vladimir Putin, the current President of the Russian Federation, and Anatoly Putin, a famous Soviet astronomer. The name is also found in neighboring Eastern European countries where Slavic culture has had an influence.

Geographical distribution of the last name Putin

The surname Putin is predominantly associated with Russia, where it is one of the most common last names, particularly in the northern regions such as Arkhangelsk Oblast and Murmansk Oblast. Its distribution is also notable in the Republic of Karelia and St. Petersburg. Additionally, the name has a significant presence in other post-Soviet states like Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Estonia, due to historical migration patterns and cultural ties between these countries. On a global scale, there are also small populations of people with the surname Putin in the United States, Israel, Canada, Germany, and Australia, primarily among diaspora communities and Russian immigrants.

Variants and spellings of the last name Putin

The surname Putin has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration from Russian to English. Some common forms include Putin, Pootin, Pootyn, Putyn, Puatin, and Puttin. Additionally, the name may also be transliterated as Pokhvin, Pokhin, Pakhin, or Pakhmin, which are phonetically similar. In some instances, it can be found spelled as Petuhin, Petukhov, or Petukhin, with slight variations in vowel usage and consonant changes. While these variations may appear significantly different, they all share the common root name Putin. It is essential to note that the correct spelling of a person's last name should always be based on their own preference or the way it appears on official documents.

Famous people with the last name Putin

The Putin family has produced notable figures across various fields, particularly in Russian politics. Born in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is the most internationally recognized figure with this surname. He served as Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and then as President from 2000 to 2008, later resuming the presidency in 2012. His tenure has been marked by geopolitical tensions with the West and domestic political reforms. Another prominent Putin is Anatoly Borisovich Putin, a Russian statesman who was the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1985 to 1990 and served as the Prime Minister from 1991 to 1992 during the final days of the Soviet Union. Additionally, Maria Putina, Vladimir's sister, is a prominent philanthropist in Russia and has been involved in various charitable activities throughout her career.

Genealogical research on the last name Putin

The surname Putin has Russian origins and is derived from the Old Slavic word "put" meaning 'path' or 'road'. The name emerged as a topographic one, identifying an individual who lived near a track or road. One of the earliest recorded instances of the Putin family can be traced back to the 17th century in Nizhny Novgorod, a city along the Volga River in Russia. Yuri Alekseyevich Putin, the current President of Russia and a prominent figure bearing this surname, is a descendant from this region. His ancestors include Pavel Aleksandrovich Putin, a native of Gdovsky Uyezd, Pskov Governorate, who served in the Imperial Russian Army during the 19th century. The Putin family's history is deeply rooted in the military and political landscape of Russia, with many members serving as Cossacks, officers, and politicians throughout the centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "putin"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025