Kenyon is a unique and distinctive male given name of American origin. It is derived from the surname Kenyon, which itself has English origins, dating back to the Middle Ages. The name Kenyon is believed to have been originally given as an occupational name for a linen maker or merchant, stemming from the Old English word "kening" meaning linen, and the suffix "-son" indicating "son of".
The use of Kenyon as a given name appears to have started in the United States during the late 19th century. It gained popularity relatively slowly but steadily over time, with its highest usage occurring in the mid-20th century. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Kenyon was most popular in the United States between 1945 and 1970, peaking at number 368 in popularity during the year 1958.
Despite its American popularity, Kenyon remains relatively uncommon globally, making it a unique choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their child. The name does not have any specific associated meanings or symbols beyond its English linguistic roots and occupational origins. However, like all names, Kenyon's meaning can evolve and be shaped by the individual who bears it throughout their life.
In popular culture, there are a few notable figures named Kenyon. One of the most well-known is Kenyon Martin, a former professional basketball player who was drafted into the NBA in 1999 and went on to have a successful career playing for several teams. Additionally, there are references to the name Kenyon in literature, such as in the works of author E. M. Forster.
Overall, Kenyon is an uncommon yet intriguing male given name with English origins and occupational roots. Its unique sound and distinctive spelling make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a memorable name for their child. While its meaning may be open to interpretation, Kenyon's history and linguistic background provide a fascinating starting point for understanding this captivating name.
The name Kenyon has seen a varied number of births over the years in the United States. Between 1969 and 2007, there were a total of 187 babies named Kenyon born across the country.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can see that the popularity of the name Kenyon fluctuated over this period. The peak years for the name were 1974 with 13 births and 1980 with 11 births. Conversely, there were several years where the name was not very popular, such as in 1969, 1978, and 2006, each with only 5 births.
Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that Kenyon has been a consistent choice among parents over this 38-year span. The fact that there were births every year except for one (1982) shows that the name has maintained a steady presence in the United States. This consistency suggests that Kenyon may be considered a timeless and unique choice for a baby boy's name.
Furthermore, it is interesting to note that the popularity of Kenyon does not seem to follow any specific pattern or trend. For instance, there were no significant increases in births during decades where naming trends towards popular culture influences were prominent (such as in the 1980s with names like Michael and Christopher). Instead, Kenyon appears to have maintained a steady level of popularity over time.
In conclusion, while Kenyon may not be one of the most popular baby boy names in the United States, it has shown consistent presence and appeal among parents throughout several decades. This suggests that the name carries unique value and significance for those who choose it.