Find out how popular the first name Kinny has been for the last 14 years (from 1975 to 1988) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kinny by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Kinny is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1988, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kinny.

The history of the first name Kinny

The name Kinny is believed to have originated from the Celtic language and culture, with roots dating back to the early medieval period. It is thought to be derived from the Old Irish word "cinn," which means "chief" or "leader." This suggests that the name may have been initially bestowed upon individuals of high social standing or those who held positions of authority within their communities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kinny can be found in ancient Irish manuscripts from the 8th century. These documents mention a figure named Kinny mac Flann, who was a prominent warrior and chieftain of the Uí Failghe tribe. His name is believed to have reflected his status as a respected leader among his people.

In the 11th century, a historical figure known as Kinny O'Ruairc appears in the annals of Irish history. He was a member of the powerful O'Ruairc dynasty, which ruled over the kingdom of Breifne in modern-day County Leitrim, Ireland. Kinny O'Ruairc was renowned for his military prowess and his role in defending his lands against Norman invaders.

Moving forward to the 16th century, a notable individual named Kinny O'Donnell is mentioned in records from County Donegal, Ireland. He was a member of the influential O'Donnell clan and is believed to have been a skilled diplomat and negotiator, playing a crucial role in maintaining peace between various Irish clans and the English crown.

In the 17th century, a Scottish Highlander named Kinny MacDonald is documented as having participated in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. He fought alongside the Royalist forces and gained recognition for his bravery and loyalty to the cause of King Charles I.

Lastly, in the 19th century, a man named Kinny O'Connor made a significant contribution to the field of Irish folklore and literature. Born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1825, he dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the rich oral traditions and stories of his native land. His works remain an important part of Ireland's cultural heritage.

While the name Kinny may not be as widely used today, its historical roots and associations with leadership, bravery, and cultural preservation make it a captivating and meaningful name that has left an indelible mark on the annals of history.

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

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

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