The name Kenyon has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the words "cyne" meaning "royal" and "tun" meaning "settlement" or "estate". It was originally used as a surname, referring to someone who lived in a royal manor or estate.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kenyon dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, which was a comprehensive survey of land ownership in England commissioned by William the Conqueror. The name appeared as a place name and surname in various regions of the country.

Over time, Kenyon transitioned from being a surname to being used as a given name, particularly in England and other English-speaking countries. It gained popularity as a masculine first name during the 19th century.

One notable historical figure with the name Kenyon was Kenyon Cox (1856-1919), an American painter, illustrator, and writer. He was known for his murals and portraits, and also served as a teacher at the Art Students League in New York.

Another notable Kenyon was Kenyon Butterfield (1923-1986), an American lawyer and politician who served as the United States Attorney General under President Ford from 1975 to 1976.

In the literary world, Kenyon Calvert Craufurd (1887-1915) was a British poet and writer who is best known for his poetry collections, including "The Curlew's Cry" and "The Battle of the Suvla Bay".

Kenyon College, a private liberal arts college in Gambier, Ohio, was founded in 1824 and named after Lord Kenyon, a prominent English judge and politician in the late 18th century.

Another notable figure with the name Kenyon was Kenyon Martin (born 1977), an American professional basketball player who played in the NBA for several teams, including the New Jersey Nets and the Denver Nuggets.

While the name Kenyon has its roots in Old English, it has gained popularity across various cultures and regions, particularly in the English-speaking world, and has been associated with individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions throughout history.