Declining since 1985, #1,654 for boys today.
Popularity of Kent since 1885
Babies named Kent per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 31 |
| 1900s | 55 |
| 1910s | 388 |
| 1920s | 1,082 |
| 1930s | 3,123 |
| 1940s | 8,346 |
| 1950s | 18,691 |
| 1960s | 19,258 |
| 1970s | 6,728 |
| 1980s | 4,999 |
| 1990s | 2,902 |
| 2000s | 1,615 |
| 2010s | 1,425 |
| 2020s | 674 |
Meaning & origin
Kent is a short, strong-sounding English name that saw its greatest use in the mid-20th century. Peak popularity occurred in 1962, when the name was at its highest rank. Since 1985, its usage has been steadily falling, making it a more distinctive choice today. In the most recent data from 2025, Kent ranked 1,654th, with roughly 1 in every 16,912 boys receiving the name. The name was especially common in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio during its heyday. While its exact meaning is uncertain, the name's association with the English county and the iconic comic book character Clark Kent gives it a grounded, familiar quality. Parents considering Kent today may appreciate its concise, classic feel without being trendy.
The name Kent is primarily a modern English surname and place name derived from the county of Kent in southeastern England. The county's name itself is of Celtic origin, likely from a word meaning 'edge' or 'border', referring to its coastal location. As a given name, Kent gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, and is sometimes associated with the comic book character Clark Kent (Superman's alter ego).
Where Kent 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: Kenny
Sibling names for Kent
Names that share Kent's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Kent
Names whose popularity has moved with Kent's over the last 50 years.
