Is Kennedy a boy or girl name?

Kennedy is considered a unisex name, though in recent decades it has become more common for girls in the United States.

What is the Irish origin of the name Kennedy?

It comes from the Irish surname Ó Cinnéidigh, meaning descendant of Cinnéidigh, an ancestor related to the High King Brian Boru.

When did Kennedy become a popular first name?

It began to rise as a first name in the mid-20th century, largely influenced by the prominence of the Kennedy family in American politics.

Name meaning & originKennedy

/KEN-uh-dee/

Irish

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Kennedy is an Irish baby name pronounced /KEN-uh-dee/. A name traditionally meaning 'misshapen head' or 'helmeted head'.

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Meaning of Kennedy

A name traditionally meaning 'misshapen head' or 'helmeted head'.

The name is derived from the Gaelic name Cinnéidigh, which is a compound of 'ceann' (head) and 'éidigh' (ugly or armored). While 'misshapen' is the literal translation, many historians suggest it originally referred to a leader wearing a protective helmet in battle. It rose to prominence as a surname associated with the royal Dál gCais dynasty of Ireland before becoming a popular given name in the United States.

Origin: Irish
Pronunciation: /KEN-uh-dee/

Cultural background

Once primarily a surname, Kennedy has become a popular unisex given name in North America, often chosen to honor the American political dynasty.

Variations & nicknames

Kenedy
Kennedi
Kenadee
Kenadie
Ken
Kenny

Famous people named Kennedy

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Kennedy McMann
American actress known for playing Nancy Drew
Film · Modern
Kennedy Meeks
Professional basketball player
Sport · Modern
Kennedy Montgomery
Known mononymously as Kennedy, a prominent VJ and political commentator
Politics · 1990s–Present
Kennedy Brooks
American football running back
Sport · Modern
Kennedy Odede
Social entrepreneur and author
Social Activism · Modern

Frequently asked about Kennedy

Is Kennedy a boy or girl name?: Kennedy is considered a unisex name, though in recent decades it has become more common for girls in the United States.
What is the Irish origin of the name Kennedy?: It comes from the Irish surname Ó Cinnéidigh, meaning descendant of Cinnéidigh, an ancestor related to the High King Brian Boru.
When did Kennedy become a popular first name?: It began to rise as a first name in the mid-20th century, largely influenced by the prominence of the Kennedy family in American politics.

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