Kendric is a unique and distinctive male given name of Welsh origin. The name Kendric is derived from the Welsh name Cynwrig or Cunwrig, which consists of the elements "cwn" meaning "hound" or "dog," and "rig" meaning "power" or "king." Therefore, Kendric can be interpreted to mean "powerful dog" or "dog with royal power."
The name Kendric is believed to have been introduced to England by Welsh settlers during the early medieval period. It was also popularized in the 12th century when it appeared in the Welsh chronicle Brut y Tywysogion as the name of a prince of Gwynedd, who reigned from 1137 to 1160.
Over time, Kendric has evolved and become more anglicized, with variations such as Kendrick and Kenrick also gaining popularity. Today, Kendric is still considered a rare but unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their baby boy.
In literature, Kendric appears as a character in the Welsh epic poem "Owain" by Iolo Goch, while in modern times, the name has been used by several notable figures such as American football player Kenrick Ellis and British actor Kenneth Cranham. Despite its rarity, Kendric remains a strong and powerful name with a rich history and unique meaning.
In conclusion, Kendric is a Welsh male given name that means "powerful dog" or "dog with royal power." With a fascinating history dating back to the early medieval period and appearances in Welsh literature, Kendric is an uncommon yet distinctive choice for parents looking for a meaningful and powerful name for their baby boy.
The name Kendric has seen a varied history of popularity over the past several decades in the United States. The trend began to pick up steam in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with a notable increase from 5 births in both 1966 and 1968 to 40 births in just three years' time by 1971. This upward trajectory continued until reaching its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a remarkable high of 73 births recorded in 2013.
Throughout these years, Kendric has maintained a steady presence among newborns, with fluctuations ranging from a low of 34 births in 1982 to a recent peak of 66 births in 2020. The name's popularity has shown resilience over time, demonstrating that it has resonated with parents across generations.
As of the most recent data available for 2023, Kendric continues to be a distinctive and recognizable name, with 42 newborns bearing this name. This ongoing presence underscores its enduring appeal among American parents who seek unique yet approachable names for their children.