What does Kendall mean and where does it come from?
The name Kendall has been used for both genders, but it is more commonly given to females in recent years. Its usage increased in the United States in the late 20th century, influenced by cultural references such as Kendall Jenner, a popular model and reality star. The name evokes a sense of nature
Cultural significance
Kendall has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of derived from a place name meaning 'valley of the river kent'..
Peak popularity
Reached #116 in 2012 — currently #317 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kendall?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kendall?
Kendall works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kendall Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kendall Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kendall Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kendall Claire
French influence · crisp
Kendall Jane
Literary · strong
Kendall Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kendall right now?
Declining — down 16 spots — currently #317 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #317 | 981 | ▼ down 16 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #301 | 1,061 | ▲ up 4 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #305 | 1,046 | ▲ up 9 · +4% births |
| 2020 | #314 | 1,009 | ▼ down 167 · -54% births |
| 2015 | #147 | 2,195 | ▼ down 14 · -6% births |
| 2010 | #133 | 2,340 | ▼ down 1 · -5% births |
| 2005 | #132 | 2,456 | ▲ up 59 · +49% births |
| 2000 | #191 | 1,650 | ▼ down 1 · +7% births |
| 1995 | #190 | 1,547 | ▲ up 216 · +141% births |
| 1990 | #406 | 642 | ▲ up 67 · +44% births |
| 1985 | #473 | 446 | ▲ up 354 · +135% births |
| 1980 | #827 | 190 | ▲ up 639 · +171% births |
| 1975 | #1466 | 70 | ▼ down 391 · -38% births |
| 1970 | #1075 | 113 | ▼ down 161 · -7% births |
| 1965 | #914 | 122 | — |
The story of Kendall
Kendall entered American naming records in 1929 and has been in use for over 95 years. A total of 95,924 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4559 in 1940 to #317 in 2023. Kendall is used for both genders: 64% female and 36% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kendall in 2012:
Kendall by decade
Kendall peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 19 | |
| 1910s | 355 | |
| 1920s | 659 | |
| 1930s | 800 | |
| 1940s | 1,421 | |
| 1950s | 2,921 | |
| 1960s | 5,242 | |
| 1970s | 4,474 | |
| 1980s | 8,992 | |
| 1990s | 20,467 | |
| 2000s ★ | 26,047 | |
| 2010s | 23,330 | |
| 2020s | 1,197 | |
What are good nicknames for Kendall?
What names sound and feel like Kendall?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kendall also consider these
How is Kendall written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Kendall
What does the name Kendall mean?
Kendall means "Derived from a place name meaning 'valley of the River Kent'." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Kendall?
Kendall is currently ranked #317 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kendall?
Kendall originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Kendall?
Kendall is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 N D AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kendall more of a girl or boy name?
Kendall is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.