Kadek

female

Origin

The name 'Kadek' originates from Bali, Indonesia, where it is used as a traditional name for the second-born child in a Balinese family. It is a common part of Balinese cultural naming customs, which do not traditionally use surnames but rely on birth order and caste status to create a person's name. The name entered into Australian records reflects the Balinese cultural influence within the Indonesian archipelago, which is known for its rich and diverse linguistic heritage.

Meaning

Literal translation of 'Kadek' is 'second' or 'second-born child' in Balinese. In the Australian context, it signifies the cultural diversity and the recognition of Indonesian and Balinese communities within Australia, symbolising respect and acknowledgment for multicultural identities.

Pronunciation

/kəˈdɛk/ in Australian English, with stress on the second syllable, pronounced as 'kuh-DEK'. The 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'cat', and the 'e' is short.

Variants & Nicknames

Variants

  • Kadek (original Balinese spelling)
  • Kadék (alternative spelling with accent)
  • Kadeh (possible phonetic variation)

Nicknames

  • Kade
  • Kadi

Name Days

  • Indonesian Independence Day (17 August) — celebrated by Balinese communities in Australia with cultural events and gatherings.
  • Balinese Day of Silence (Nyepi) — observed with cultural festivities, meditation, and reflection.
  • No official Australian Christian or secular calendar date for Kadek, but these cultural days are significant for Balinese Australians.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with kadek:

  • Lina and Kadek (balanced multicultural pairing)
  • Sari and Kadek (traditional Balinese pairing)
  • Maya and Kadek (modern cross-cultural pairing)

Fun Facts

  • The name Kadek is commonly used in Bali for children born on the second day after a set of twins, reflecting Balinese ritual significance.
  • In Australia, the Balinese community organises annual cultural festivals which highlight traditional names like Kadek, fostering cultural awareness.
  • Some Australian schools with a focus on multicultural education incorporate Balinese names such as Kadek into their cultural events and celebrations.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name kadek:

  • Respectful of tradition
  • Culturally aware
  • Family-oriented

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a balanced and rhythmic visual structure, often appreciated for its cultural uniqueness in written form, especially in Bali and Indonesia.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in areas with significant Balinese communities, such as parts of New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, especially around cultural festivals and community centres.

Numerological Significance

Name number 8, associated with power, ambition, and success — fitting for those who value tradition and cultural roots, with a focus on community and resilience.

Astrological Connections

Typically associated with the zodiac signs of Leo and Virgo in Australia's astrology, reflecting traits of leadership, practicality, and nurturing qualities.

Historical Context

The name Kadek is rooted in Balinese tradition with ancient origins related to the social and familial structure of Bali. It reflects the importance of birth order and caste. Not widely used outside Balinese and Indonesian communities, but increasingly recognised as part of multicultural Australia's diverse tapestry.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name can be adapted to Indonesian and Balinese scripts easily, retaining its pronunciation and cultural significance. It does not have direct equivalents in Western languages but is recognised for its phonetic simplicity and cultural authenticity.

Famous People Named kadek

  • Kadek Devi (Balinese actress and model)
  • Kadek Ramadhan (Indonesian footballer) in Australia, involved in multicultural community work.
  • Kadek Tirtawijaya (Balinese dance artist and performer in Australia)

Popularity in Australia

Year Count
2017 2