What does Kinsey mean and where does it come from?
The name Kinsey has its origins in Old English and is often interpreted to mean 'king's meadow' or 'royal meadow'. It was originally a surname that transitioned into a first name in the United States and gained popularity in the late 20th century. Kinsey has also gained some recognition due to the c
Cultural significance
Kinsey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of king's meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #836 in 1998 — currently #1135 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kinsey?
Kinsey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kinsey Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kinsey Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kinsey Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kinsey Claire
French influence · crisp
Kinsey Jane
Literary · strong
Kinsey Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kinsey right now?
Holding steady — currently #1135 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1135 | 1,065 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1140 | 1,045 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1145 | 1,015 | ▲ up 674 · +849% births |
| 2020 | #1819 | 107 | ▼ down 456 · -38% births |
| 2015 | #1363 | 173 | ▼ down 410 · -35% births |
| 2010 | #953 | 268 | ▲ up 27 · +7% births |
| 2005 | #980 | 250 | ▼ down 105 · -1% births |
| 2000 | #875 | 252 | ▲ up 82 · +28% births |
| 1995 | #957 | 197 | ▲ up 280 · +47% births |
| 1990 | #1237 | 134 | ▲ up 493 · +103% births |
| 1985 | #1730 | 66 | ▲ up 831 · +78% births |
| 1980 | #2561 | 37 | — |
The story of Kinsey
Kinsey is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 7,651 total births recorded, Kinsey remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2561 in 1980 to #1135 in 2023. Kinsey is used for both genders: 96% female and 4% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kinsey in 1998:
Kinsey by decade
Kinsey peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 12 | |
| 1920s | 11 | |
| 1930s | 10 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1950s | 24 | |
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 119 | |
| 1980s | 750 | |
| 1990s | 2,021 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,566 | |
| 2010s | 2,016 | |
| 2020s | 107 | |
💎With 7,651 total births, Kinsey is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kinsey?
What names sound and feel like Kinsey?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kinsey also consider these
Common questions about the name Kinsey
What does the name Kinsey mean?
Kinsey means "king's meadow" — 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 Kinsey?
Kinsey 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 Kinsey?
Kinsey 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 Kinsey?
Kinsey is a two-syllable name pronounced K IH1 N Z IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kinsey a common or rare name?
Kinsey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.