Mckenna Name Meaning: Origin and Significance
Origins of the Mckenna Name
If you are curious about the origins of the Mckenna name, you have come to the right place. The Mckenna name is an Irish and Scottish surname, which means “son of Cionaodh” or “son of Kenneth.” The name is derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Cionaodha, which means “son of Cionaodh.”
The Mckenna name has a rich history in Ireland, where it was first found in County Monaghan, located in the Northern part of the Republic of Ireland in the province of Ulster, at Truagh where they were known as the Lords of Truagh. The historical lineage of the McKennas also lies in Scotland, but perhaps also Truagh, County Monaghan, Ulster, Ireland, where they were “The Lords Of Truagh.”
In North Kerry, McKenna is considered to come from Mac Ginea. The name was not very common as a given name before 1980, but it rapidly increased in popularity during the 1990s, likely because it was viewed as an even more feminine alternative to Mackenzie.
The Mckenna name is a Gaelic surname, which means that it has the Mac prefix, indicating “son of.” The name Maccionaodha is also a variation of the name, which is the Gaelic spelling of the name.
In conclusion, the Mckenna name has a rich history in Ireland and Scotland, and it is derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Cionaodha, meaning “son of Cionaodh” or “son of Kenneth.” The name has become more popular in recent years, and it is viewed as a feminine alternative to the name Mackenzie.
Meaning Behind Mckenna
Mckenna is a name of Irish and Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Cionaodha, which means “son of Cionaodh”. Cionaodh is an Irish name that means “born of fire” or “born of love”.
The name Mckenna has several meanings, including “son of Kenneth”, as Kenneth is a variant of Cionaodh. The name can also mean “son of the handsome one”. The name Mckenna is often associated with strength and beauty, as well as intelligence and creativity.
In Irish mythology, Cionaodh was the name of a legendary king who was known for his bravery and wisdom. The name Mckenna is often associated with these qualities, as well as with a strong sense of independence and individuality.
Overall, the name Mckenna has a rich and complex history, and is associated with a variety of meanings and qualities. Whether you choose to name your child Mckenna because of its association with strength and beauty, or because of its connection to Irish mythology, it is a name that is sure to make a lasting impression.
Popularity of the Name Mckenna
If you’re considering the name Mckenna for your baby, you might be interested in knowing how popular it is. According to BabyCenter user data, Mckenna is ranked #492 in popularity in 2023, which is a drop of 222 spots from the previous year.
While Mckenna is a unisex name, it is much more popular as a girl’s name in the United States. In fact, it peaked at #177 in 2002, making it a trendy choice for baby girls. However, it’s worth noting that the name has been steadily decreasing in popularity since then.
The table below shows the popularity of the name Mckenna in the United States over the years:
| Year | Rank | % of Babies Named Mckenna |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 492 | 0.013% |
| 2022 | 270 | 0.026% |
| 2021 | 214 | 0.034% |
| 2020 | 196 | 0.038% |
| 2019 | 174 | 0.044% |
As you can see, the name Mckenna has been consistently decreasing in popularity over the past few years. However, it’s still a relatively popular name, with over 800 babies named Mckenna in the United States in 2023 alone.
In conclusion, while the name Mckenna may not be as popular as it once was, it’s still a trendy and unique choice for parents looking for a unisex name.
Gender Association with Mckenna
Mckenna is a gender-neutral name that has become increasingly popular in recent years. While it was originally a surname, it has become a popular first name for both boys and girls. The name has a Celtic-Gaelic origin and means “son of Cionaodh” or “son of Kenneth, Ken, or Kenna.”
Despite being a unisex name, Mckenna is more commonly used for girls. In fact, it is ranked as the 251st most popular name for girls in the United States. However, it is still used for boys as well, although less frequently.
The name Mckenna has a strong and independent connotation, which may be why it is often associated with girls. It is also a name that has been used in popular culture, such as in the book series “The Maze Runner” and the TV show “Teen Wolf.”
If you are considering naming your child Mckenna, it is important to note that the name is often spelled and pronounced in various ways, including Mackenna, McKennah, and MaKenna. It is also a name that can be easily paired with a middle name to create a unique combination.
Overall, Mckenna is a name that is both modern and timeless, making it a great choice for parents looking for a gender-neutral name that is both strong and creative.
Variations and Alternatives of Mckenna
If you’re considering naming your child Mckenna, there are several variations and alternatives of the name to choose from.
One popular alternative is Mackenzie, which has a similar sound and also means “son of Kenneth.” Mackenzie is a more common name than Mckenna, ranking at #85 in the US in 2021.
Another alternative is Mack, which is a shortened version of Mckenna. This name is less common but still a viable option for parents who want a unique name for their child.
If you prefer the Mc or Mac prefix, there are several options to choose from, including Mc or MacKenna, Mc or MacKenzie, and Mc or MacKinley. These names all have Scottish or Irish origins and are similar in meaning to Mckenna.
In addition to these alternatives, there are several related names that have a similar sound or meaning to Mckenna. These include:
- Kenna: a shortened version of Mckenna that can also be used as a standalone name.
- Kennedy: a unisex name that means “helmeted head” and has a similar sound to Mckenna.
- McKenley: a variation of Mckinley that means “son of the white warrior.”
- Mackenna: a variation of Mckenna that is more commonly used for boys.
Overall, there are several variations and alternatives of Mckenna to choose from, each with its own unique sound and meaning. Whether you prefer a more common name like Mackenzie or a unique name like Mack, there is sure to be a name that fits your preferences.
Pronunciation and Syllables of Mckenna
If you are wondering how to pronounce Mckenna, you are not alone. The name Mckenna is pronounced as “mih-KEHN-ah” or “m-ah-k-eh-n-uh.” The pronunciation may vary slightly depending on the region and accent of the speaker.
Mckenna is a two-syllable name with stress on the first syllable. The name is made up of six letters and two vowels. The syllable breakdown of Mckenna is “Mck” and “enna.”
| Name | Mckenna |
|---|---|
| Syllables | Two |
| Stress | First |
| Vowels | Two |
| Letters | Six |
| Breakdown | Mck-enna |
Mckenna is a popular name for girls in the United States and other English-speaking countries. The name has Irish origins and means “son of the handsome one, born of fire.” The name has a melodic sound and a beautiful flow, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and modern name for their baby girl.
Overall, Mckenna is a beautiful and unique name with a pleasant sound and a rich history. If you are considering naming your baby girl Mckenna, you can be confident that you are choosing a name that is both modern and timeless.
Famous People Named Mckenna
If you’re considering the name Mckenna for your child, you might be interested in knowing that there are a few famous people who share the name. Here are some notable individuals named Mckenna:
- Mckenna Grace: This young actress has appeared in a number of popular TV shows and movies, including “Designated Survivor,” “The Haunting of Hill House,” and “Captain Marvel.” She has been nominated for several awards for her work in the entertainment industry.
- Mckenna Faith: This country music singer has released several albums and singles, including “Let’s Get Lost,” “Tear It Up,” and “American Nights.” She has toured extensively throughout the United States and has gained a loyal following of fans.
- Mckenna Sean “Bear” Pascoe: This former American football player played as a tight end for several teams, including the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons. He retired from professional football in 2016.
- Elise Mckenna: While not a real person, Elise Mckenna is a character in the 1980 movie “Somewhere in Time.” She is played by Jane Seymour and is a famous actress who falls in love with a man from the future.
These individuals have all achieved success in their respective fields and have helped to bring attention to the name Mckenna. If you’re looking for a name that is both unique and recognizable, Mckenna might be a great choice for your child.
Mckenna in Popular Culture
Mckenna has made several appearances in popular culture, from TV series to American Girl dolls.
One of the most notable appearances of the name Mckenna is in the TV series “Mckenna Shoots for the Stars.” The show follows the story of a young gymnast named Mckenna Brooks who overcomes obstacles to achieve her dreams. The show was popular among young audiences and helped to popularize the name Mckenna.
In addition to the TV series, Mckenna is also the name of an American Girl doll. The Mckenna doll was released in 2012 and quickly became a fan favorite. The doll comes with a range of accessories, including a gymnastics outfit and equipment, and has inspired young girls to pursue their dreams.
The popularity of the name Mckenna has also been reflected in popular baby name lists. In recent years, the name has consistently ranked in the top 200 names for girls in the United States.
Overall, the name Mckenna has become a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. Its appearances in popular culture have helped to increase its popularity and cement it as a name with a positive and inspiring connotation.
Choosing Middle Names for Mckenna
When it comes to choosing middle names for Mckenna, there are many options to consider. Whether you are looking for something classic, trendy, or unique, there are plenty of middle names that pair well with the first name Mckenna. Here are some ideas to help you find the perfect middle name for your little one.
Classic Middle Names
If you prefer traditional names, there are plenty of classic middle names that work well with Mckenna. Some popular options include:
- Elizabeth
- Grace
- Anne
- Rose
- Marie
These names are timeless and elegant, and they pair well with Mckenna’s modern vibe.
Trendy Middle Names
If you want a middle name that is more on-trend, there are plenty of options to consider. Some trendy middle names that work well with Mckenna include:
- Harper
- Riley
- Quinn
- Avery
- Addison
These names are popular among parents today, and they add a modern twist to the classic name Mckenna.
Unique Middle Names
If you want a middle name that stands out, there are plenty of unique options to consider. Some unique middle names that pair well with Mckenna include:
- Skye
- Phoenix
- Journey
- Haven
- Story
These names are unconventional and add a touch of whimsy to the name Mckenna.
Family Names
Another option to consider when choosing a middle name for Mckenna is to use a family name. Whether it’s a grandparent’s name, a great-aunt’s name, or even your own middle name, using a family name is a great way to honor your loved ones while also giving your child a meaningful middle name.
Overall, there are many great middle names that pair well with the name Mckenna. Whether you prefer classic, trendy, or unique names, there is sure to be a middle name that is perfect for your little one.
Other Names Similar to Mckenna
If you like the name Mckenna, there are several other names that have a similar sound and feel. Here are some options to consider:
- Mackenzie: This name has a similar sound and origin to Mckenna, and is also a unisex name. It means “son of Kenneth” and has Scottish roots.
- Kinsley: This name has a similar ending to Mckenna and is also a unisex name. It means “king’s meadow” and has English origins.
- Reagan: This name has a similar sound and is also a unisex name. It means “little king” and has Irish roots.
- Teagan: This name has a similar sound and is also a unisex name. It means “attractive” or “handsome” and has Welsh origins.
- Taylor: This name is a unisex name and has a similar feel to Mckenna. It means “tailor” and has English origins.
Other names that have a similar feel to Mckenna include Finnegan, Kieran, McKennon, Makenna, Kenzie, and Kendall. These names all have Irish or Scottish roots and share the same Gaelic origins as Mckenna.
When choosing a name similar to Mckenna, it’s important to consider the meaning and origin of the name, as well as how it sounds with your last name. You may also want to consider the popularity of the name and whether it fits with your personal style.
Ultimately, the name you choose should be one that you love and that feels right for your child. Whether you choose Mckenna or another name similar to it, your child is sure to have a unique and special name that they can be proud of.
Historical and Modern Usage of McKenna
McKenna is a surname of Irish and Scottish origin. The name means “son of Cionaodh” in Scottish Gaelic and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Cionaodha. The name Cionaodha itself is a combination of the Gaelic words “cion,” meaning respect or affection, and “Aodh,” a pagan god of the Celts known for fire and wisdom.
Historically, the McKenna name has been associated with the Galloway region of Scotland and the Ulster region of Ireland. The earliest known usage of the name dates back to the 11th century, and it has been used by several notable figures throughout history, including Irish musician Barney McKenna and American businessman Andrew J. McKenna.
In modern times, the McKenna name has become increasingly popular as a given name, particularly in the United States. According to Social Security Administration data, McKenna was the 246th most popular name for girls in 2002 and had risen to the 132nd most popular name by 2006.
The name is often associated with youthfulness and informality, and is commonly used as a first name for both boys and girls. The name is also often used in modern popular culture, appearing in books, movies, and television shows.
While the McKenna name is relatively rare as a surname, it has become a popular given name in recent years, particularly in the United States. The name’s historical and cultural significance, combined with its modern popularity, make it a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
References and Sources for Mckenna
If you’re interested in learning more about the meaning, origin, and popularity of the name McKenna, there are several resources you can consult. Here are some references and sources that you might find helpful:
References
- “McKenna (name)” on Wikipedia: This page provides an overview of the name McKenna, including its history, variations, and notable people with the name. It also includes references to other sources for further reading.
- “Meaning, origin and history of the name McKenna” on Behind the Name: This page provides a detailed analysis of the meaning and origin of the name McKenna, including its etymology, popularity over time, and related names.
- “McKenna: Name Meaning, Origin, Popularity, & Inspiration” on FamilyEducation: This page provides a brief overview of the name McKenna, including its meaning, origin, and popularity, as well as some inspiration for parents considering the name for their child.
Sources
- “The Great Big Book of Baby Names” by Cleveland Kent Evans: This comprehensive guide to baby names includes information on the meaning, origin, and popularity of thousands of names, including McKenna.
- HouseofNames.com: This website offers a variety of resources for researching family names, including the history and coat of arms of the McKenna family.
- Ancestry.com: This genealogy website allows you to search for information on your family history, including the origin and meaning of your surname. If you have McKenna ancestors, this could be a useful resource for learning more about the name.
