Find out how popular the first name Kiven has been for the last 48 years (from 1975 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kiven by gender

Based on the last 48 years of data, Kiven is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kiven.

The history of the first name Kiven

The given name Kiven is believed to have its origins in the ancient Celtic languages spoken in parts of Europe, particularly in Ireland and Scotland. It is thought to be derived from the old Gaelic word "caoimhín," which means "gentle" or "kind." The name first gained popularity in the early medieval period, around the 5th to 8th centuries AD.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kiven can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. The text mentions a "Caoimhín of Glendalough," a revered Irish saint who lived in the 6th century AD and founded one of the most important monastic settlements in Ireland at that time.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the name Kiven was relatively common among the Irish and Scottish Gaelic populations. It was often associated with individuals of pious or religious backgrounds. One notable figure from this period was Kiven O'Conor, a 12th-century Irish cleric and bishop of Ardagh.

As the name spread beyond the British Isles, it gained various spellings and pronunciations. In the 16th century, there was a German scholar and theologian named Kiven Rheinhardt, who was known for his contributions to the Protestant Reformation.

During the Renaissance period, the name Kiven also appeared in several literary works, including the plays of William Shakespeare. In his play "Henry V," there is a minor character named Kiven ap Harry, a Welsh soldier in the English army.

In more recent history, one of the most famous individuals with the name Kiven was Kiven Costner, the American actor and filmmaker born in 1955. He is best known for his roles in films such as "Dances with Wolves," "The Bodyguard," and "Yellowstone."

Other notable figures named Kiven include Kiven Kline, an American actor born in 1947, Kiven Sheedy, an American actress born in 1958, and Kiven Garnett, an American professional basketball player born in 1986.

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

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

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