Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Kennedey

      Origin 
      Gaelic/irish

      Meaning 
      Descendant of Ceanndubhan

      Variations 
      Kennedy, Kennedie, Kennedi

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Kennedy originates from the Gaelic/Irish name Ceanndubhan, which translates to descendant of Ceanndubhan. The components of the name break down to ceann, meaning head, and dubhan, meaning black or dark. Therefore, the name can be interpreted to mean dark-headed or black-headed. This heritage highlights the name’s roots in Irish culture and its connection to lineage and family heritage.

      Kennedy has a rich historical background, particularly in Ireland, where it is associated with various Gaelic clans. The name was borne by significant historical figures, including military leaders and statesmen. One of the most notable early references to the name is linked to the Kennedy clan in County Tipperary. Over the centuries, the name spread beyond its Irish origins, gaining prominence in Scottish history as well. The surname became particularly well-known in the 20th century with the rise of the Kennedy political dynasty in the United States, which traced its roots back to Irish immigrants.

      In contemporary society, Kennedy is commonly used both as a surname and as a first name. The surname is associated with various prominent figures in politics, entertainment, and sports, solidifying its prominence in popular culture. As a first name, Kennedy has gained popularity in recent years, reflecting a trend toward using surnames as given names. The name is often perceived as strong and sophisticated, continuing to resonate in various contexts such as business, politics, and academics.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname and child name associated with Kennedey.
      Ancetre

      is the most common surname for Kennedey.

      Maurice

      is the most common child name for Kennedey.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      2009 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kennedey.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.