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
      Kennedy

      Origin 
      Irish

      Meaning 
      Misshapen Head

      Variations 
      Kennedi, Kenneth, Benedykt

      *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, derived from Irish origins, holds a significant historical and linguistic heritage. With roots in the Irish Gaelic word Cinnidigh, meaning Misshapen Head, Kennedy has evolved since its inception to become an illustrious name. From a historical standpoint, the name Kennedy originated in the 9th century, tracing back to the ruling dynasty of the Kingdom of Thomond in Ireland. The origins of the name tie it closely to the esteemed lineage of Gaelic nobility, establishing a connection to Ireland's cultural and political history.

      Throughout history, the name Kennedy has found prominence in various spheres. The Kennedy family, hailing from the United States, perhaps exemplifies the name's modern-day usage. Recognized globally, this family has held notable positions in American politics, with President John F. Kennedy being the most renowned member. The prominence of the Kennedy name extends beyond political realms, as it has also found its way into popular culture, literature, and entertainment. Today, Kennedy remains a popular first name in the United States and other English-speaking countries, reflecting its continued appeal and connection to Irish ancestry.

      The name Kennedy, originating from Irish Gaelic and meaning Misshapen Head, possesses a rich historical heritage from Irish nobility. Its association with the influential Kennedy family and prevalence in modern-day society highlights its enduring prominence.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Kennedy.
      Kennedy

      is the most common surname for Kennedy.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Kennedy.

      Kennedy

      is the most common child name for Kennedy.

      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?
      1870 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kennedy.

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

      Explore the origins of another name.