KENNEY

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Kenney

Kenney, a surname of English origin, is derived from the given name Kenelm, which means "fierce helmet". The name Kenelm itself is a combination of the Old English elements "cyne" meaning royal or brave, and "helm" meaning helmet or protection.

The Kenney surname can be traced back to medieval times in England, particularly in areas with Anglo-Saxon influence. It is believed that individuals with the surname Kenney may have descended from families of knights or warriors given the meaning of the name.

Over the centuries, the Kenney surname has spread and diversified, with variations such as Kenny and Kinney emerging. The name can be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world due to migration and historical connections.

Notable individuals bearing the Kenney surname have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, literature, and the arts. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, keeping alive its historical roots and meaning.

There are approximately 2,226 people named Kenney in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,850th most common surname in Britain. Around 34 in a million people in Britain are named Kenney.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Christopher
David
James
John
Michael
Nicholas
Paul
Peter
Robert
William

Female

Alexandra
Ann
Catherine
Elizabeth
Fiona
Helen
Karen
Margaret
Mary
Michelle
Patricia
Sarah
Sharon
Susan
Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.