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
      Kenneth

      Origin 
      Scottish

      Meaning 
      Handsome

      Variations 
      Bennett, Kennedi, Kennedy

      *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 Kenneth finds its origin in Scotland, where it bears the meaning handsome in the Gaelic language. Historically, this name has held significance and boasts a rich heritage. It was first introduced to Northern Britain by the Picts, an ancient Celtic people, who bestowed the name upon their kings. In fact, a number of Scottish kings have been named Kenneth throughout the centuries, cementing its place in the annals of history.

      Over time, the name Kenneth has continued to be popular in Scotland and gradually spread to other parts of the world. It has gained recognition and usage in various cultures, often maintaining its original meaning of handsome or sometimes interpreted as born of fire. This name has managed to retain its charm and appeal, making it a favored choice among parents seeking a strong and attractive name for their children.

      In modern-day usage, the name Kenneth can be found across the globe. It is still prevalent in Scotland, but it has also gained popularity in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond. Renowned individuals with this name include Kenneth Branagh, a distinguished British actor and director, and Kenneth Cole, a prominent American fashion designer. With its enduring history and pleasant connotations, the name Kenneth continues to be cherished for its timeless appeal.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Kenneth.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Kenneth.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Kenneth.

      Kenneth

      is the most common child name for Kenneth.

      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?
      1928 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kenneth.

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

      Explore the origins of another name.