📅 Since 1957🏆 10 years in top 1000.25% of births at peak
How to pronounce Kennedy
KEN·ud·ee
/ˈkɛn.əd.iː/ · stress on KEN · 3 syllables
“helmeted chief”
American origin · Girl name
What does Kennedy mean and where does it come from?
The name Kennedy has both Gaelic and Anglo-Saxon origins. It gained popularity in the United States in the late 20th century, particularly after the presidency of John F. Kennedy. As a surname, it comes from the Irish Ceannéidigh, meaning 'descendant of Ceannéidigh', which translates to 'helmeted ch
Cultural significance
Kennedy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of helmeted chief.
Holding steady — currently #72 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1965–2023#72 · Top 0.05%
1965
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#72
3,074
▲ up 2
2022
#74
3,075
▼ down 4 · -11% births
2021
#70
3,443
▲ up 2 · +3% births
2020
#72
3,342
▼ down 14 · -26% births
2015
#58
4,519
▲ up 53 · +60% births
2010
#111
2,833
▲ up 7
2005
#118
2,826
▲ up 21 · +18% births
2000
#139
2,391
▲ up 90 · +94% births
1995
#229
1,235
▲ up 2746 · +3150% births
1990
#2975
38
▲ up 4052 · +322% births
1985
#7027
9
▲ up 3555 · +80% births
1980
#10582
5
▼ down 1333
1975
#9249
5
▼ down 2517
1965
#6732
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kennedy
2015Rank #58
4,519
#2679
↗Rising
1965 - 202314 years
The story of Kennedy
Kennedy entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. Its peak popularity was #54 in 2014. A total of 85,089 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6732 in 1965 to #72 in 2023. Kennedy is used for both genders: 92% female and 8% male.
Kennedy means "helmeted chief" — 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 Kennedy?
Kennedy is currently ranked #72 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kennedy?
Kennedy 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 Kennedy?
Kennedy is a three-syllable name pronounced K EH1 N AH0 D IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Kennedy?
Kennedy pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Kennedy
For a sister
Kennedy & Avery♡
Kennedy & Madison♡
Kennedy & Ivy♡
Kennedy & Willow♡
For a brother
Kennedy & Oliver♡
Kennedy & Elijah♡
Kennedy & Hudson♡
Kennedy & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#72
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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