Letters to the Editor

To the Editors:

The election of Vladimir Putin to the Presidency made me curious—about the name, I mean. Does it have certain meaning in the language? I refer to Rasputin.
Sincerely,Harry C. Schulte
Kirkwood, MO

Mr. Schulte:
Etymology of some Russian names can be somewhat speculative. But it is our understanding that the name “Putin” derives from the Russian word “put,” for “path” or “way.” In contrast, the name “Rasputin” derives from the Russian word “rasput’e,” meaning a crossroads.
— The Editors