MallowbyNames

Kyrene

ky-REEN · Of uncertain origin; possibly derived from the Greek name Cyrene, meaning 'supreme power' or linked to the ancient city of Cyrene in Libya.

Peak popularity
1990
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Kyrene since 1990

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

37101990200020102020Most births 1990Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1990s52
2000s30
2010s21
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Kyrene is a rare, modern spelling of the ancient Greek name Cyrene. It first entered U.S. birth records in 1990, the same year it reached its peak usage, though it has never ranked among the top 1000 names. The name's trajectory has been stable, with very sporadic use across the decades. Its connection to Greek mythology and the historic city of Cyrene gives it a classical resonance, but the variant spelling Kyrene is a distinctly contemporary choice, likely influenced by the fashionable 'Ky-' sound found in names like Kylie and Kyra. While no top states show significant usage, Kyrene appeals to parents seeking a unique name with a subtle mythological touch.

Kyrene is a variant spelling of Cyrene, a name from Greek mythology and history. Cyrene was a Thessalian princess and a companion of Artemis, later giving her name to the ancient city of Cyrene in North Africa. The name's meaning is debated, but it may derive from Greek 'kyrios' meaning 'lord' or 'power'. The spelling Kyrene is a modern, Americanized adaptation that emerged in the late 20th century.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Ky, Rene

Variants: Cyrene, Kyra, Kyre

Sibling names for Kyrene

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

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

K is for Kyrene, our favorite little girl.

K is for Kyrene…”

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

Make Kyrene's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kyrene mean?
The meaning of Kyrene is uncertain. It is a variant of Cyrene, which may mean 'supreme power' from Greek elements, but the derivation is not firmly established.
How popular is the name Kyrene?
Kyrene is very rare. According to U.S. data, it first appeared in 1990 and has never ranked in the top 1000. Its usage has remained stable and infrequent, with no significant change in recent years.
Is Kyrene a boy or girl name?
Kyrene is almost exclusively used for girls.