A 1930s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Kennet since 1938
Babies named Kennet per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1959, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kennet's real moment was 1938.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 7 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 43 |
| 1960s | 44 |
| 1970s | 12 |
| 1980s | 18 |
| 1990s | 6 |
| 2000s | 38 |
| 2010s | 34 |
| 2020s | 12 |
Meaning & origin
Kennet is a rare name that first appeared in U.S. Social Security records in 1938, its peak year, but never reached the top 1000. It has shown a rising trajectory since 2022, though it remains uncommon. The name is likely a variant of Kenneth, a classic Scottish name, but it may also be tied to the River Kennet in England. Because of its low usage, Kennet offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon. Its rarity means it has no recorded top states or strong regional ties in the U.S. The name's revival in recent years suggests a quiet comeback, appealing to those who appreciate vintage yet underused names.
Kennet likely arose as a variant of Kenneth, a name of Scottish Gaelic origin meaning 'born of fire' or 'handsome'. It may also derive from the River Kennet in England or as a surname from those sources. The name saw modest use in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1930s, but remains rare.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ken, Kenny
Sibling names for Kennet
Names that share Kennet's style, for a brother or sister.
