Find out how popular the first name Kene has been for the last 27 years (from 1978 to 2004) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kene by gender

Based on the last 27 years of data, Kene is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 85% of people named Kene being male.

For the most recent data in 2004, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kene.

The history of the first name Kene

The name Kene has its origins in the Yoruba language, spoken by the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria and parts of Benin and Togo. It dates back several centuries and is believed to have derived from the Yoruba word "kẹ́ńù," which means "to appreciate" or "to admire."

In Yoruba culture, the name Kene has been traditionally associated with gratitude, appreciation, and admiration. It was often given to children to express the parents' thankfulness for their arrival and to instill in them a sense of gratitude and respect for life's blessings.

While the name Kene does not appear to be explicitly mentioned in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it has been a part of Yoruba naming traditions for generations. Some of the earliest recorded examples of individuals bearing the name Kene can be found in historical records from the 18th and 19th centuries.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Kene was Kene Mkparugo (1858-1929), a prominent Nigerian merchant and entrepreneur who played a significant role in the economic and social development of the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Another influential individual with the name Kene was Kene Nwanga (1912-1985), a Nigerian politician and diplomat who served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the United Nations General Assembly in the 1960s.

In the realm of arts and culture, Kene Leze-Massie (1946-2020) was a Congolese painter and sculptor renowned for his vibrant and expressive artworks that celebrated African culture and traditions.

Moving to the field of sports, Kene Eze (born 1987) is a Nigerian professional basketball player who has played for various teams in Europe and the NBA G League.

Lastly, Kene Holliday (born 1981) is an American actor and filmmaker known for his roles in television series like "Greenleaf" and "The Oval."

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have borne the name Kene, highlighting its cultural significance and enduring presence across various domains.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Kene was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Kene, please contact us.

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