Indonesian Names

A common name in Indonesia that would not work well in English-speaking countries, being too close to putrid or putty.

Bayou? No, but it sounds the same, and since both the Indonesian name and the English word have appealing nature meanings, this is a perfect choice for the family that wants to bridge cultures.

An epithet of the sun and the Hindu god Shiva, also borne by a 12th century Indian astronomer. Bhaskar, a common Indian surname, is related.

This name, which may also be Bintang in Indonesia, would have a difficult time transitioning to the Western World.

A common Indonesian name that is sometimes (as with Mary here) joined with another, as in 'Ayu' and 'Tyas,' which becomes 'Ayuningtyas' and means beautiful heart.

An unknown (outside Indonesia) name with an attractive, gentle sound.

Jack getting too common for you? Here's a distinctive twist.

Everyone will misunderstand it as Lara, but if you're willing to put up with the confusion, this is a truly different yet simple option.

Tyas is an unusual Indonesian name that's simple and straightforward and could make an distinctive choice in the Western World.

Popular Indonesian name that may leave a young girl in an English=speaking country open to teasing.

This name may be "great" in Bahasa (the main language of Indonesia), but the sound does not sit lightly on the English-speaking tongue.

An Indonesian name that is virtually unknown in the Western World but that is eminently portable, sister of India and Indre or Indra.

Jakarta, the name of the capital and largest city of Indonesia, is located on the island of Java. Both Jakarta and Java could make interesting and unusual choices for a girl.

A strong Indonesian name that's easy to translate to the English-speaking world.

Mawar is another of the "rose" variants that is almost unheard of outside its home country (in this case, Indonesia), but which deserves consideration given its lilting sound.

If you're looking for an international boy's name with an appealing meaning, you've found one great option.

The English homophone "harem" means something very different, but Harum is a pretty name nonetheless.