Kenneth

Kenneth is a masculine given name of Scottish origin. It is the English form of Gaelic names such as Cináed and Coinneach, with the exact meaning debated but historically linked to qualities such as nobility and appeal. The name gained prominence in medieval Scotland, notably through Kenneth MacAlpin (Cináed mac Ailpín), traditionally regarded as the first king to unite the Picts and Scots.

In modern usage, Kenneth has remained common in Scotland and in English-speaking countries. It is typically shortened to Ken or Kenny, and has produced a range of variants and derivatives across cultures. The name has been borne by figures in politics, science, the arts, and business, helping sustain its presence in contemporary naming.

Notable real people named Kenneth include the filmmaker Kenneth Branagh; the economist and Nobel laureate Kenneth Arrow; the author Kenneth Grahame; the art historian Sir Kenneth Clark; and the fashion designer Kenneth Cole. In fiction, Kenneth Parcell is a long-running character on the television series 30 Rock, and the nickname Ken is widely used in popular culture.

Today the name Kenneth remains in use, with popularity that varies by region and era. Its long association with Scottish history and its presence in literature, film, and public life contribute to its continued recognition in many English-speaking societies.