Holding steady, #6,803 for boys today.
Popularity of Keno since 1947
Babies named Keno per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 7 |
| 1950s | 11 |
| 1960s | 6 |
| 1970s | 155 |
| 1980s | 87 |
| 1990s | 114 |
| 2000s | 92 |
| 2010s | 84 |
| 2020s | 61 |
Meaning & origin
Keno is an uncommon name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1947. It reached its peak rank of 6,803 in 1975, when it was given to roughly 1 in 142,340 newborn boys. The name's trajectory has been stable in recent decades, with no significant revival in the 1970s or later. Although it has not been associated with any particular state, Keno's usage remains sparse but consistent. Its origins are ambiguous: it may be a modern respelling of Kenneth, a Scottish classic meaning 'handsome', or an independent coinage drawn from the name of the gambling game. Due to its low frequency, Keno carries a distinct, contemporary feel without strong historical or cultural associations.
Keno is likely a respelled or abbreviated form of Kenneth, a Scottish name derived from 'cainneach' meaning 'handsome' or 'born of fire'. However, its modern usage may also be influenced by the name of the lottery-style game 'keno', which originated from French 'quine' (five winning numbers). The name saw its highest popularity in the 1970s in the United States.
Sibling names for Keno
Names that share Keno's style, for a brother or sister.
