Find out how popular the first name Kersten has been for the last 42 years (from 1974 to 2015) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kersten by gender

Based on the last 42 years of data, Kersten is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2015, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kersten.

The history of the first name Kersten

The name Kersten is of German origin and can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old High German word "Kerste," which means "Christian" or "believer." The name was initially used as a surname, particularly in areas of present-day Germany and the Netherlands.

During the Middle Ages, the name Kersten became associated with individuals who embraced Christianity or were deeply religious. It was commonly given to children as a way of expressing their parents' devotion to their faith. The name's popularity spread across various regions of Europe, particularly in areas influenced by Germanic cultures.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kersten can be found in the chronicles of the Benedictine monastery of St. Gallen in Switzerland, dating back to the 9th century. Here, a monk named Kersten is mentioned as a scribe who transcribed several religious texts.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kersten. One of the most famous was Kersten Miles (1150-1208), a German noblemen and knight who played a significant role in the Crusades. He was known for his bravery and unwavering faith, earning him the nickname "The Lion of Christ."

Another prominent figure was Kersten von Praun (1480-1542), a German Protestant theologian and reformer. He was a close associate of Martin Luther and contributed to the spread of the Protestant Reformation in Germany.

In the 17th century, Kersten Petersen (1623-1692) was a Danish astronomer and mathematician. He is renowned for his work on the motion of comets and his contributions to the development of telescopes.

The name Kersten also found its way into the world of literature. Kersten Gier (1858-1923) was a German novelist and playwright whose works explored themes of love, family, and social issues in early 20th century Germany.

Another notable figure was Kersten Lund (1901-1972), a Norwegian figure skater who won numerous championships and represented Norway at the Winter Olympics in 1924 and 1928.

While the name Kersten has its roots in Germanic cultures, it has since spread to various parts of the world, particularly through migration and cultural exchange. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its rich historical significance and association with religious devotion and faith.

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 Kersten was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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