The given name King has its origins in the English language, derived from the Old English word "cyning," which meant "ruler" or "sovereign." This name has been in use since the Anglo-Saxon period, which spanned from around the 5th to the 11th century.

The name King is closely associated with royalty and leadership, reflecting the status and authority traditionally held by monarchs. It was commonly used by English kings and members of the nobility throughout history. One of the earliest recorded uses of the name King dates back to the 9th century, when King Alfred the Great, who ruled from 871 to 899 CE, became renowned for his military victories against Viking invaders and his efforts to promote education and legal reforms.

In medieval times, the name King was often bestowed upon children as a reflection of their parents' aspirations for them to achieve greatness and power. During this period, the name appeared in various written records, such as chronicles and historical accounts.

The name King has been borne by several notable figures throughout history, including King Henry VIII of England (1491-1547), who played a significant role in the English Reformation and is known for his six marriages. Another famous bearer of the name was King Louis XIV of France (1638-1715), also known as the Sun King, who reigned for 72 years and is renowned for his absolute monarchy and the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles.

Other notable individuals with the given name King include King Tutankhamun (c. 1341-1323 BCE), the famous Egyptian pharaoh whose tomb was discovered intact in 1922, and King Solomon (c. 970-931 BCE), the biblical king of Israel renowned for his wisdom and the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem.

The name King has also been used in various cultural and artistic contexts. For example, in literature, King Arthur is a legendary British leader who has been the subject of numerous stories and works of fiction, while in music, King Oliver (1885-1938) was an influential American jazz cornet player and bandleader during the early 20th century.