Kennedy

What does the baby name Kennedy mean? Learn about what Kennedy means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Kennedy - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Kennedy
K-E-N-N-E-D-Y, is a 7-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Kennedy
KEN-ə-dee
KEH neh dee
Meaning of Kennedy
Ugly head, protected with helmet, armored head, deformed head, helmeted.
Origin of Kennedy
The name 'Kennedy' has its origin in Ireland. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó Cinnéide, which means 'descendant of Cinnéidigh'. The Gaelic name Cinnéidigh is derived from the word 'ceann', meaning 'head' or 'chief', and the personal name 'Éidigh', which translates to 'ugly' or 'fearful'. Therefore, the name 'Kennedy' can be interpreted as 'descendant of the ugly/fearful chief.'
American Names
Celebrity Names
Celtic Names
Gaelic Names
Irish Names
Politician Names
President Names
Surname Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Kennedy
Canaday
Canady
Cinnedid
Cinneide
Kenman
Kenyon
Popularity of Kennedy
The name 'Kennedy' gained popularity as a surname in Ireland, particularly in County Tipperary, where the Ó Cinnéide clan originated. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that 'Kennedy' started being used as a given name for boys.

In terms of popularity as a first name, 'Kennedy' experienced a significant rise in the United States during the 1960s. This can be attributed to the fame and influence of President John F. Kennedy, who served as the 35th President of the United States from 1961 until his assassination in 1963.
Kennedy currently has 55 likes, and is in the top 6% of liked boy's names. The name Terrance is slightly more popular than Kennedy.

Etymology of Kennedy

The etymology of the name 'Kennedy' can be traced back to the Gaelic language. The Gaelic name Ó Cinnéide is composed of two elements. The first element, 'Ó', signifies 'descendant of', indicating a familial connection. The second element, 'Cinnéide', is a personal name derived from 'ceann' (head/chief) and 'Éidigh' (ugly/fearful).

Cultural Significance of Kennedy

The name 'Kennedy' holds cultural significance, particularly in Irish and American contexts. In Ireland, it is associated with the Ó Cinnéide clan and their historical prominence in County Tipperary. The name symbolizes a connection to Irish heritage and ancestry.

In the United States, the name 'Kennedy' is strongly associated with the Kennedy family, one of the most influential and well-known political families in American history. The Kennedys have left a lasting impact on American politics, and their name carries a sense of legacy, ambition, and public service.