Mckenna is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Maoláin," which means "descendant of Maolán." Maolán was a personal name that was believed to mean "devout follower of Saint John" in Gaelic.
The name Mckenna has a rich history and has been used as both a given name and a surname throughout the years. It is thought to have originated in County Tyrone, located in modern-day Northern Ireland. The Ó Maoláin clan was once one of the most powerful families in the region, and many members of the clan held prominent positions within Irish society.
Over time, the name Mckenna has evolved and been anglicized in various ways. In some cases, it has been spelled McKenna or even Kenna. Despite these variations, the name's Irish roots remain clear, and it continues to be associated with the Emerald Isle.
Today, Mckenna is a popular given name for girls throughout the English-speaking world. While its meaning as "devout follower of Saint John" may not resonate with everyone who bears the name, many people appreciate its unique sound and Irish heritage. Whether they know it or not, those named Mckenna carry a piece of Irish history and tradition within their names.
The name Mckenna has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Starting with only 5 births each year from 1972 to 1973, it wasn't until the late 1980s that the name began to gain traction, with 64 births in 1986 and 76 births in 1985.
The turning point came in 1990 when there were 143 births, marking a substantial increase from previous years. This upward trend continued throughout the 1990s, reaching an all-time high of 1704 births in the year 2000.
However, after this peak, the popularity of the name Mckenna began to decline gradually but steadily. By 2023, there were only 940 births, indicating a significant decrease from its peak two decades prior.
Despite this recent decline, it's important to note that Mckenna remains a popular choice among parents in the United States, with a total of 42712 births over the years recorded. This statistic reflects the enduring appeal of the name and its ability to maintain relevance even as trends change over time.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Mckenna has fluctuated over the years, it continues to be a well-loved choice among parents in the United States, with a significant number of births recorded since 1972.