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Ken Boy

Popularity: #888 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationKEN / /kɛn/

Japanese; English

Meaning

Japanese: strong; English: brave

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ken is derived from the Old English name "Cyning," which means "king" or "ruler." This etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root *kuningaz, which also signifies a leader or noble. The name underwent various transformations through the centuries, eventually evolving into the modern form "Ken" in English. It is often considered a diminutive of names such as Kenneth, which itself has Scottish origins, derived from the Gaelic "Coinneach" meaning "handsome" or "born of fire." The transition of Ken into English usage reflects the broader linguistic shifts that occurred during the Middle Ages as Old English evolved into Middle English and then into Modern English.

Historically, the name Kenneth gained prominence with the reign of Kenneth MacAlpin, who became the first King of Scots in the 9th century. His establishment of the Scottish monarchy marked a significant milestone in Scottish history, and the name Kenneth became associated with leadership and nobility. The name Ken, as a shortened form, began to appear more frequently in the 20th century, although its roots can be traced back to earlier forms of the name. Additionally, the name has been used in various literary works and historical texts, contributing to its recognition in cultural contexts.

Culturally, Ken carries connotations of strength and authority, resonating with its meaning of kingship. It has been embraced in various forms across different cultures, often symbolizing leadership qualities. The name's simplicity and strong phonetic structure have allowed it to endure through generations. While diminutive forms like Kenny are also recognized, Ken stands out as a direct link to its regal origins, embodying a sense of heritage and tradition.

Trend Summary

Ken has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with notable peaks in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Kenn
  • Kenny

International Variants

  • Kenji (Japanese)
  • Kendrick (English)

Famous people named Ken

Ken Burns is a documentary filmmaker best known for The Civil War, Baseball, and Jazz.

Ken Jeong is an actor and comedian best known for The Hangover, Community, and Dr. Ken.

Ken Griffey Jr. is a former professional baseball player best known for his time with the Seattle Mariners, Cincinnati Reds, and being a 13-time All-Star.

Ken Robinson is an author and speaker best known for his TED Talk on creativity and education, and the book Out of Our Minds.

Ken Follett is an author best known for Pillars of the Earth, World Without End, and Eye of the Needle.

Ken Kesey is an author best known for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and Sometimes a Great Notion.

Ken Watanabe is an actor best known for The Last Samurai, Inception, and Godzilla.

Ken Adam is a production designer best known for Dr. Strangelove, Goldfinger, and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold.

Ken Burns is a filmmaker best known for his documentary series on American history, including The Civil War and The Vietnam War.

Ken Dodd was a comedian and singer best known for his long career in British entertainment and his hit song Happiness.

Fictional characters named Ken

Ken is a fictional character from the toy line and media franchise Barbie. He is often portrayed as Barbie's boyfriend and has appeared in various animated films and series alongside her.

Ken is a fictional character from the video game series Street Fighter. He is a skilled martial artist and one of the main protagonists known for his rivalry with Ryu.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ken was first seen in the United States in 1900. Ken has ranked as high as #373 nationally, which occurred in 1960, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Ken has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ken (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19007
19105
19116
191214
191310
191411
191520
191617
191721
191817
191919
192032
192123
192229
192330
192434
192539
192654
192748
192834
192957
193076
193195
1932127
1933108
1934152
1935167
1936211
1937203
1938252
1939276
1940303
1941345
1942407
1943444
1944427
1945479
1946684
1947707
1948622
1949456
1950347
1951296
1952321
1953317
1954370
1955439
1956657
19571,178
19581,533
19591,653
19601,776
19611,664
19621,686
19631,634
19641,476
19651,100
1966821
1967649
1968601
1969495
1970486
1971363
1972287
1973232
1974202
1975156
1976137
1977124
1978137
1979119
1980141
1981145
1982135
1983105
1984116
1985112
1986101
1987126
1988111
1989137
1990142
1991127
1992113
1993104
1994112
1995126
1996119
1997125
1998104
1999119
2000123
2001124
2002134
2003110
2004153
2005117
2006135
2007120
2008108
2009104
201068
201188
2012107
201375
201485
201587
201690
201763
201862
201951
202056
202152
202250
202337
202436