What does Kendell mean and where does it come from?
Kendell is often considered a modern unisex name, derived from the surname Kendall, which originates from the place name in Cumbria, England (from the Old Norse 'kjǫl' meaning 'valley' and 'dalr' meaning 'dale'). The name has become popular in the United States in recent decades. Though traditionall
Cultural significance
Kendell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a modern unisex name derived from the surname kendall, which relates to a river valley in england..
Peak popularity
Reached #2020 in 1971 — currently #8617 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kendell?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kendell?
Kendell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kendell Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Kendell John
One syllable · timeless choice
Kendell Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Kendell Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Kendell Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Kendell Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Kendell right now?
Rising fast — up 639 spots — currently #8617 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8617 | 12 | ▲ up 639 · +9% births |
| 2024 | #9256 | 11 | ▼ down 5878 · -69% births |
| 2023 | #3378 | 35 | ▲ up 765 · +35% births |
| 2022 | #4143 | 26 | ▼ down 70 |
| 2021 | #4073 | 26 | ▲ up 2238 · +44% births |
| 2020 | #6311 | 18 | ▼ down 1318 · -33% births |
| 2015 | #4993 | 27 | ▼ down 878 · -25% births |
| 2010 | #4115 | 36 | ▼ down 1175 · -35% births |
| 2005 | #2940 | 55 | ▼ down 294 · -2% births |
| 2000 | #2646 | 56 | ▼ down 329 · -2% births |
| 1995 | #2317 | 57 | ▲ up 1226 · +90% births |
| 1990 | #3543 | 30 | ▲ up 115 · +30% births |
| 1985 | #3658 | 23 | ▼ down 313 · -8% births |
| 1980 | #3345 | 25 | ▲ up 3983 · +257% births |
| 1975 | #7328 | 7 | — |
The story of Kendell
Kendell entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 6,553 total births recorded, Kendell remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4958 in 1960 to #3378 in 2023. Kendell is used for both genders: 29% female and 71% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kendell in 1971:
Kendell by decade
Kendell peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 28 | |
| 1930s | 60 | |
| 1940s | 116 | |
| 1950s | 214 | |
| 1960s | 486 | |
| 1970s | 686 | |
| 1980s | 1,045 | |
| 1990s ★ | 1,500 | |
| 2000s | 1,427 | |
| 2010s | 927 | |
| 2020s | 142 | |
💎With 6,553 total births, Kendell is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kendell?
What names sound and feel like Kendell?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kendell also consider these
Common questions about the name Kendell
What does the name Kendell mean?
Kendell means "A modern unisex name derived from the surname Kendall, which relates to a river valley in England." — a name rooted in English 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 Kendell?
Kendell is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Kendell?
Kendell originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kendell a common or rare name?
Kendell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Kendell more of a girl or boy name?
Kendell is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.