Putnam is an English surname with locational origins. It is a reduced variant of the place name Puttenham, which is borne by villages in Hertfordshire and Surrey, England. The name Puttenham is derived from Old English and means "Putta's homestead" — combining the personal name Putta with hām, meaning "homestead, village". The name Putta itself may mean "hawk" or be a byname.
As a surname, Putnam first appeared in historical records in England before spreading to North America. The name is especially associated with the early colonial history of New England, where the Putnam family became prominent. Notable bearers include Israel Putnam (1718–1790), a major general in the American Revolutionary War, known for his leadership at the Battle of Bunker Hill. Other notable figures are scientist and explorer John Putnam; historian and politician Arnold Putnam; and actress Julia Putnam.
In addition to its use as a surname, Putnam also appears as a place name in North America. Towns and locations named Putnam include a community in Ontario, Canada, and numerous places across the United States such as census-designated places in Alabama and Connecticut, a town in Connecticut, and townships in Iowa, Kansas, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. The surname is also linked to Putnam County in several states, named after the influential Putnam family. Related place names like Putney may share the same root.
- Meaning: "Homestead of Putta"
- Origin: English, from Puttenham
- Type: Locational surname
- Usage: Primarily in English-speaking countries, especially the USA
Sources: Wiktionary — Putnam