- published: 22 May 2016
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Kenneth is a given name.
It is an anglicized (Scots) form of either the Pictish name Ciniod or the Goidelic name Cináed, often thought to mean "fire-head" or "born of fire" (see Áed), but ultimately derives from a shared prototype with Kennedy; Cunedagius, originally Cornish (then indistinct from other Brythonic languages)--after which was carried north to Valentia and borne by Cunedda (Latin Cunetacius), founder of Gwynedd. Its popularity among the Britons also led to another form in Welsh Cenydd or Cennydd (the name of a Welsh hermit saint who traditionally lived in the 6th century).
Similar names have also been anglicized as Kenneth, including the Gaelic Coinneach ("handsome one"; e.g. Cainnech of Aghaboe) and the Old English Cyneath may mean "royal oath", used as a non-Celtic alternative etymology.
English nicknames include Kenny,Km,[MS - Km], Kenn and Ken, the latter also being a Japanese name.
In the United States: