Kes

“a short form for Kestrel, a bird of prey”

United Kingdom origin · Unisex name

♂ 13% boys♀ 87% girls

#1425US 2023

775Births / yr

→Stable

38All-time births

📅 Since 199500

What does Kes mean and where does it come from?

The name Kes gained popularity in the UK due to the book 'Kes' by Barry Hines, which was later adapted into a film in 1969. It reflects both a love for nature and a casual, modern sensibility to names. In New Zealand, it is considered contemporary and popular among younger generations.

Cultural significance

Kes has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a short form for kestrel, a bird of prey.

Peak popularity

Reached #8465 in 2000 — currently #1425 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kes?

Kes works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Kes Grace

How popular is Kes right now?

Holding steady — currently #1425 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1995–2023#1425 · Top 1.1%

1995

2000

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1425	775	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022	#1430	755	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2021	#1435	725	▲ up 7030 · +5942% births
2000	#8465	12	▲ up 4808 · +100% births
1995	#13273	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kes

Best Year2023Rank #1425

Peak Count775

Average Rank#5206

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1995 - 20235 years

The story of Kes

Kes is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1995. With 38 total births recorded, Kes remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13273 in 1995 to #1425 in 2023. Kes is used for both genders: 87% female and 13% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kes in 2000:

Emily Hannah Madison Ashley Sarah

Kes by decade

Kes peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →

Decade	Births
1990s ★	21
2000s	12
2010s	5

💎Kes has only 38 total recorded births since 1995 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Kes?

Common

KesieKesy

What names sound and feel like Kes?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kes also consider these

Kess

English · English

Ken

Japanese · Strong or healthy

Ker

English · from the marsh

Kem

China · 恺, meaning 'happy'

Jes

American · Hebrew

Wes

English · Short form of

Des

American · Short form of

Tes

American · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Kes

What does the name Kes mean?

Kes means "a short form for Kestrel, a bird of prey" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Kes?

Kes is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Kes?

Kes originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How does Kes sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Kes flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Kes ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

Is Kes a common or rare name?

Kes is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.