Ken

Ken is a masculine given name that is widely used in English-speaking countries. It is most commonly a diminutive of Kenneth, but it can also be given as a standalone name. The form has appeared across various cultures and is used by both real people and fictional characters.

Origin and use: Kenneth is of Scottish origin; the short form Ken is common in North America and Europe. The precise etymology of Kenneth is debated; it is often linked to Gaelic elements meaning “handsome” or “born of fire.” Ken is also encountered as a surname in rare instances.

In popular culture, Ken is best known as the name of Barbie's partner, the Ken doll, first released by Mattel in 1961. Since then, the character has appeared in numerous toy lines and media, and has been analyzed in discussions of gender representation in toys.

Notable people named Ken include documentarian Ken Burns, actor Ken Jeong, authors Ken Follett and Ken Kesey, and athletes Ken Griffey Jr. and Ken Watanabe.