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Origin and meaning of the name Kendra

What is the origin of the name Kendra?

The first name Kendra is derived from the Old English word "Cynethryth," meaning "royal power" or "ruler's strength." Over time, it evolved into the Middle English form "Katherine" and then shortened to various forms including Kendra, which gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century.

Learn more about the origin of the name Kendra

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Kendra

The name Kendra is an English variant of the Germanic name Kunigund (meaning "royal battle" or "bold in battle"), which evolved into the Old High German Kunigunt, and eventually became the Middle English Ken(i)greda or Ken(i)grede. The modern English form Kendra came about by shortening the name from Kenigreda to Kendra during the Medieval period. It is a unisex name that has been used for both males and females, but in modern times it is more commonly given to females. Notable people with the name include Kendra Wilkinson, an American reality television personality and model, and Kendra Morris, an American actress. The name Kendra is known for its strong, regal connotations, reflecting its Germanic origins, and has a distinctive sound that makes it stand out in a crowd.

Character traits associated with the name Kendra

Kendra is often characterized by a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. Her intelligence and curiosity drive her to continuously learn and seek out new experiences. She possesses excellent communication skills, making her adept at expressing herself clearly and persuasively in both written and verbal forms. Loyalty is deeply ingrained in Kendra's character, as she values the relationships she cultivates and stands by her loved ones unwaveringly. Creative and imaginative, Kendra excels in problem-solving and often approaches situations with innovative ideas. With a compassionate heart, she is inclined to help others and make a positive impact on those around her. Determined and resilient, Kendra persistently overcomes obstacles to achieve her goals.

Popularity of the name Kendra

The given name Kendra has gained prominence as a popular choice for newborn girls in various English-speaking countries since its introduction into the mainstream. Its roots can be traced back to the Old English name "Cynethryth," which means "Royal Power." Over the past few decades, Kendra has ranked consistently among the top 1000 baby names in the United States and has experienced periods of increased popularity, making it a familiar choice for parents seeking unique yet accessible names. The name's widespread usage is attributed to its easy pronunciation, appealing sound, and association with strong, powerful women, which resonates well with modern societal values emphasizing female empowerment and independence. Kendra has also been associated with popular culture figures, further contributing to its popularity and enduring appeal among parents looking to name their daughters after strong, contemporary role models.

Famous people with the name Kendra

Kendra is a name that has been associated with several renowned individuals across various fields. In the realm of entertainment, Kendra Wilkinson Baskett, an American reality television personality, model, and actress, gained prominence as one of the primary cast members on the E! reality television series "The Girls Next Door" and "Kendra". In sports, Kendra Sunderland, an American former student and webcam model, came to attention when she was suspended from Oregon State University for appearing in a Playboy video. Kendra Morris, born in 1968, is a notable figure in the field of science as an astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Furthermore, Kendra Harrison, a Jamaican-American athlete, holds the world record for the women's 100-meter hurdles. These individuals, each excelling in their respective domains, exemplify the versatility and achievement potential that the name Kendra embodies.

Variations of the name Kendra

Kendra is a popular feminine given name with various spellings and pronunciations. The most common spelling is Kendra, which originates from the Old English word "Cyn-drie", meaning royal power or ruler. It is pronounced as /ˈkɛndrə/.

Other variations of this name include Kenndra, Kennedra, Kendarr, Kendaree, Kendarie, Kendarra, Kendarry, and Kendaria. These variations may be used to add a unique twist or personal touch when naming a child. The name can also be shortened to Kendy or Kenny as a nickname.

In some cases, the name may be spelled as Kintra, which is a different origin and means "slender" in Gaelic, or Cindra, with no known meaning or origin. It's important to note that the spellings and pronunciations of names can vary based on regional and cultural influences, making each unique instance of the name Kendra its own.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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