MallowbyNames

Kerensa

keh-REN-sah · Means 'love' in Cornish, though some sources also associate it with 'peace' or 'beloved'.

Peak popularity
1974
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2022

A 1970s favorite, climbing again.

Popularity of Kerensa since 1965

Babies named Kerensa per year in U.S. Social Security records.

102030198020002020Most births 1971Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1960s67
1970s232
1980s98
1990s41
2000s7
2010s6
2020s6

Meaning & origin

Kerensa is a Cornish name that entered American records in 1965, peaking in popularity in 1974. While never reaching a top rank, the name has seen a revival in recent years, rising since 2022. Its usage is concentrated in areas with Cornish heritage, though it has not been recorded in any specific top states. The name's meaning of 'love' and its cultural ties to Cornwall give it a distinct and appealing quality for parents seeking a unique name with historical roots.

Kerensa is a Cornish name derived from the word 'kerensa' meaning 'love'. It emerged in the mid-20th century as part of a revival of Cornish language and culture, and has been used as a given name primarily in Cornwall and among those with Cornish heritage. The name gained some visibility in the 1970s, consistent with its peak in usage in 1974.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Kerry, Keri, Rensa

Variants: Kerenza, Kerensa

Sibling names for Kerensa

Names that share Kerensa's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kerensa, our favorite little girl.

K is for Kerensa…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kerensa's letter becomes Kerensa's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kerensa's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kerensa mean?
Kerensa means 'love' in Cornish.
How popular is the name Kerensa currently?
As of 2025, Kerensa is not ranked in the top 1000 names in the United States, but it has been rising in use since 2022.
Is Kerensa a boy's or girl's name?
Kerensa is predominantly a girl's name.