Declining since 1990, #3,848 for boys today.
Popularity of Kendell since 1919
Babies named Kendell per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 0 | 5 |
| 1920s | 0 | 28 |
| 1930s | 0 | 60 |
| 1940s | 0 | 116 |
| 1950s | 32 | 182 |
| 1960s | 81 | 405 |
| 1970s | 163 | 523 |
| 1980s | 275 | 772 |
| 1990s | 460 | 1,040 |
| 2000s | 534 | 895 |
| 2010s | 340 | 587 |
| 2020s | 72 | 189 |
Meaning & origin
Kendell is a modern spelling variant of Kendall, a name that emerged from an English place name. First recorded in 1919, it saw a steady rise through the mid-20th century, peaking in 1989 before entering a gradual decline since 1990. As of 2025, it ranks 3,848th nationally, with an incidence of 1 in 61,003 newborns. The name has been used primarily in Louisiana, its top state, and reflects broader trends in unisex naming. Kendell offers a distinctive twist on a familiar sound, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon but recognizable choice.
Kendell is a spelling variant of Kendall, an English surname and given name. The surname likely originates from Kendal, a town in Cumbria, whose name is thought to come from the River Kent plus Old English 'dæl' meaning 'valley'. As a given name, Kendall gained popularity in the 20th century, and Kendell emerged as an alternate spelling. The name has been used for both boys and girls, with unisex usage increasing in recent decades.
Where Kendell is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ken, Kenny, Dell
Sibling names for Kendell
Names that share Kendell's style, for a brother or sister.
