Kendall vs Lake

Kendall is an English baby name meaning The name means 'valley of the River Kent', while Lake is an English baby name meaning A name referring to a body of water or one who lives near a lake. Both have 2 syllables.

Kendall

/KEN-dull/

Meaning
The name means 'valley of the River Kent'.
Origin
English
Gender
Unisex
Syllables
2
Letters
7
Nicknames
Kendal, Kyndall, Kendell, Kendyl, Kenny, Ken
Loved
0 times

It originated as an English surname derived from the town of Kendal in Cumbria, Northern England. The town's name stems from the Celtic river name 'Kent' combined with the Old Norse 'dalr', meaning valley. While originally a locational surname, it transitioned into use as a given name in the 19th century.

Full Kendall name page

Lake

/LAYK/

Meaning
A name referring to a body of water or one who lives near a lake.
Origin
English
Gender
Unisex
Syllables
2
Letters
4
Nicknames
Laike, Layke, Laken, Lach, Lakely
Loved
0 times

Derived from the Middle English word 'lake' and the Old English 'lacu', which originally signified a stream or pool. It evolved from the Latin 'lacus', denoting a basin or lake. While traditionally used as a topographical surname for families residing near water, it transitioned into a given name in the late 20th century.

Full Lake name page

How to choose between Kendall and Lake

  • Sound: Kendall runs to 2 syllables (/KEN-dull/) and Lake to 2 (/LAYK/). Either pairs comfortably with most surnames.
  • Heritage: Both names share an English background, so neither leans further from your family's roots.
  • Nicknames: Kendall shortens to Kendal, Kyndall, Kendell. Lake shortens to Laike, Layke, Laken.
  • Usage today: While historically used for boys, it became significantly more popular for girls in the United States starting in the late 20th century. It is now widely perceived as a stylish, gender-neutral choice in English-speaking countries. The name is primarily used in English-speaking countries, particularly in North America, as part of a trend toward nature-inspired and gender-neutral names.

Kendall vs Lake: common questions

Is Kendall or Lake easier to pronounce?
Kendall is said /KEN-dull/ with 2 syllables, while Lake is said /LAYK/ with 2 syllables. The shorter one is usually easier for young children to say.
What is the difference in meaning between Kendall and Lake?
Kendall means The name means 'valley of the River Kent'. Lake means A name referring to a body of water or one who lives near a lake.
Which is more popular, Kendall or Lake?
Kendall and Lake are loved equally often by visitors here (0 each).