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

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Wills & Probate
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • 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
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • Careers
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Kevin

      Origin

      Irish, Gaelic.

      Meaning

      Gentle, kind, and beloved.

      Variations

      Kevina, Kevine, Bevin
      The name Kevin has its roots in the Irish language, deriving from the Gaelic name "Caoimhín," which is composed of the elements "caomh," meaning "gentle" or "kind," and "ín," a diminutive suffix. This suggests that the name can be interpreted as "gentle born" or "kind," reflecting the character traits associated with its bearers. The name has been used in Ireland since at least the 6th century, and it gained popularity due to its association with St. Kevin, the founder of the monastic settlement at Glendalough in County Wicklow. St. Kevin is revered in the Catholic Church, and his feast day is celebrated on June 3.

      Throughout history, Kevin has been a common name among the Irish population, particularly during the Middle Ages. Its usage remained relatively localized until the 20th century when it began to be adopted more widely in English-speaking countries, especially the United States and Canada. The name's rise in popularity is often attributed to the post-World War II baby boom, during which it became fashionable among parents seeking traditional yet modern names for their children. By the 1960s and 1970s, Kevin had entered the top ten names for boys in the United States, reflecting a broader trend of embracing Irish names during that period.

      Culturally, the name Kevin has been represented in various forms of media and literature, contributing to its significance beyond mere nomenclature. In film and television, characters named Kevin have appeared in a diverse range of genres, from comedic roles to more serious portrayals, further embedding the name in popular culture. One of the most notable references is the character Kevin McCallister from the "Home Alone" film series, who became an iconic figure during the holiday season and contributed to the name's enduring popularity.

      Notable individuals named Kevin have made significant contributions across various fields. In sports, Kevin Durant, an American professional basketball player, is recognized as one of the top players in the National Basketball Association (NBA), having won multiple championships and awards throughout his career. In the realm of entertainment, Kevin Spacey gained fame as an accomplished actor and producer, receiving numerous accolades, including Academy Awards. Additionally, Kevin Bacon is a well-known actor whose career spans several decades and includes a wide array of roles in both film and television.

      The name Kevin has also been subject to cultural variations and adaptations in different languages and regions. In French, the name is often spelled "Kévin," while other language adaptations can include "Caoimhín" in Irish. These variations highlight the name's flexibility and appeal across diverse cultures.

      In contemporary society, the name Kevin continues to be popular, though its ranking has fluctuated over the years. In recent decades, it has seen a decline in the number of newborns being given the name, yet it remains a familiar and well-regarded choice for many parents. The name's continued presence in various cultural contexts ensures that it remains relevant, serving as a testament to its enduring legacy.

      Overall, the name Kevin encapsulates a rich historical and cultural significance that extends beyond its simple meaning. Its associations with kindness, the legacy of St. Kevin, and the prominence of notable individuals have all contributed to its lasting popularity in both Irish and global contexts.

      Based on our records...

      smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Kevin.

      Susan

      This is the most common name of those married to a Kevin.

      Kevin

      This is the most common name for a child of a Kevin.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Ancestry Family
      Order AncestryDNA
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1960 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kevin.

      Explore the origins of another name.