📅 Since 1880🏆 104 years in top 1001.33% of births at peak
How to pronounce Kenneth
KEN·ETH
/ˈkɛn.ˈɛθ/ · stress on KEN · 2 syllables
“Born of fire; handsome.”
Scotland origin · Boy name
What does Kenneth mean and where does it come from?
Kenneth is a name of Scottish origin traditionally used for males but has seen adaptations for females in recent years. It is derived from the Gaelic name 'Coinneach,' which means 'handsome' or 'born of fire.' The name has historical significance in Scotland, with several kings bearing the name. It
Cultural significance
Kenneth has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of born of fire; handsome..
Holding steady — currently #262 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#262 · Top 0.19%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#262
1,318
▲ up 1 · +1% births
2022
#263
1,310
▼ down 5 · -5% births
2021
#258
1,373
▼ down 15 · -6% births
2020
#243
1,466
▼ down 43 · -27% births
2015
#200
2,022
▼ down 40 · -17% births
2010
#160
2,426
▼ down 38 · -28% births
2005
#122
3,368
▼ down 28 · -19% births
2000
#94
4,150
▼ down 22 · -21% births
1995
#72
5,224
▼ down 20 · -37% births
1990
#52
8,259
▼ down 5 · -8% births
1985
#47
8,999
▼ down 6 · -6% births
1980
#41
9,614
▼ down 6
1975
#35
9,637
▼ down 10 · -43% births
1970
#25
16,816
▼ down 4 · -26% births
1965
#21
22,671
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kenneth
1935Rank #15
27,683
#81
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Kenneth
Kenneth has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #13 in 1939. Over 1283K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #297 in 1880 to #262 in 2023. Kenneth is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Kenneth means "Born of fire; handsome." — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Kenneth?
Kenneth is currently ranked #262 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 Kenneth?
Kenneth originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland 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 Kenneth?
Kenneth is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 N EH1 TH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kenneth more of a girl or boy name?
Kenneth is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Kenneth
For a sister
Kenneth & Bonnie♡
Kenneth & Dinna♡
Kenneth & Normia♡
Kenneth & Paisley♡
For a brother
Kenneth & Bonnie♡
Kenneth & Burness♡
Kenneth & McDonald♡
Kenneth & Greig♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#262
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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