Are you a fan of the name Kennedy for your little girl, but struggling to find the perfect middle name to complement it?
Look no further!
I’ve gone through the painstaking process of choosing names for my three kids, so I know from personal experience that choosing a middle name for your baby is no easy task.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 100 of the best middle names for Kennedy to help you in your process.
From classic choices to more unique options, there’s something to spark your imagination and make your little one’s name shine.
So, get ready to be inspired and find the perfect middle name for your baby Kennedy!
Importance of Middle Names
Middle names are important because they can add depth and meaning to a person’s name.
What’s more, the great thing about middle names is that they offer an opportunity for parents to choose a name that may not have worked as a first name, but still holds significance or meaning for them.
Middle names can also be a way to honor family members, family names, or cultural traditions, reflect personal values or interests, or simply provide a unique identifier.
A good middle name complements both the first name and the last name effortlessly.
History of Kennedy
The meaning of the name Kennedy is “descendant of Cinnéidigh,” and it is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name “Ó Cinnéide.” Cinnéidigh was an Irish surname name that means “armored”, “helmet-headed” or “misshapen head” but was considered a noble name in ancient Ireland.
The Kennedy family can trace its origins back to the Gaelic kingdom of Dál Cais, located in modern-day County Clare, Ireland. The Kennedys were one of the most powerful clans in the region and were known for their military prowess.
In the 12th century, the Kennedys were among the first Irish families to adopt surnames, and the name “Ó Cinnéide” eventually evolved into Kennedy.
The Kennedy name gained international prominence in the 20th century with the rise of the Kennedy political dynasty in the United States. President John F. Kennedy, his brothers Robert and Ted Kennedy, and their descendants have all played prominent roles in American politics, cementing the Kennedy name in the annals of history.
Today, the name Kennedy remains popular as both a first and last name, with its Gaelic origins adding a touch of history and tradition to modern names.
What more, Kennedy is a unisex name, meaning it can be used for both boys and girls.
While it is more commonly used as a last name, it has become a very popular name choice for both genders in recent years. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration, Kennedy was the 73rd most popular name for girls and the 858th most popular name for boys in the United States in 2020.
Classic Middle Names
A classic middle name is a good option to pair with Kennedy for a number of reasons.
First, it helps to balance out the strong and modern feel of Kennedy as a first name.
Additionally, classic middle names have stood the test of time and have been popular for decades or even centuries. This means that they are less likely to go out of style or become trendy, which is especially important when selecting a name for a child who will carry it throughout their life.
Finally, classic middle names are often family names that have been passed down from generation to generation, adding a sense of tradition and history to the child’s name.
Pairing a traditional middle name with Kennedy is a great way for parents to create a name that feels both timeless and meaningful.
Here are some great middle names with a classic, traditional feel:
Kennedy Anne – Anne is a timeless classic that complements the strong and modern Kennedy perfectly.
Kennedy Elizabeth – Elizabeth is a classic name that exudes elegance and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for a middle name.
Kennedy Grace – Grace is a simple yet beautiful name that pairs well with Kennedy, creating a harmonious and balanced combination.
Kennedy Jane – Jane is a classic name that has been used for centuries, and its simplicity and timelessness make it an ideal choice for a middle name.
Kennedy Louise – Louise is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and has a timeless quality that makes it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
Kennedy Marie – Marie is a classic middle name that adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the strong and modern name Kennedy.
Kennedy Catherine – Catherine is a classic name that has been used for centuries and adds a sense of timeless sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Margaret – Margaret is a classic name that is both elegant and regal, making it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
Kennedy Victoria – Victoria is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Frances – Frances is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and adds a touch of old-fashioned charm to Kennedy.
Kennedy Charlotte – Charlotte is a classic name that has been used for centuries and has a timeless quality that makes it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
Kennedy Alexandra – Alexandra is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Caroline – Caroline is a classic name that exudes elegance and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for a middle name for Kennedy.
Kennedy Eleanor – Eleanor is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and adds a sense of timeless sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Abigail – Abigail is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Beatrice – Beatrice is a classic name that has a timeless quality, making it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
Kennedy Victoria – Victoria is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Rose – Rose is a classic name that exudes beauty and elegance, making it an ideal choice for a middle name for Kennedy.
Kennedy Isabella – Isabella is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Sarah – Sarah is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and adds a touch of old-fashioned charm to Kennedy.
Kennedy Annabel – Annabel is a classic name that has a timeless quality, making it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
Kennedy Olivia – Olivia is a classic name that exudes beauty and elegance, making it an ideal choice for a middle name for Kennedy.
Kennedy Matilda – Matilda is a classic name that is both strong and feminine, making it a perfect complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Sophia – Sophia is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and adds a sense of timeless sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Madeline – Madeline is a classic name that has a timeless quality, making it a perfect fit for Kennedy.
One-Syllable Middle Names
Since Kennedy is a longer first name, pairing it with a one-syllable middle name creates a name with a strong, concise, and memorable sound.
It also allows the first name to stand out while the middle name serves as a subtle complement.
A bonus is that a short middle name can also make it easier for the child to spell and pronounce their full name. Additionally, when filling out forms or writing signatures, a shorter middle name can be more convenient.
Here is a list of the best middle names with just one syllable:
Kennedy Blake – Blake is a strong and modern name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Brooks – Brooks is a nature-inspired name that adds a touch of ruggedness to the strong and modern name Kennedy.
Kennedy Cole – Cole is a short and simple name that adds a sense of cool and laid-back style to Kennedy.
Kennedy Dean – Dean is a classic and masculine name that complements Kennedy’s strong and unisex feel.
Kennedy Drew – Drew is a unisex name that adds a touch of modernity and gender fluidity to Kennedy.
Kennedy Finn – Finn is a nature-inspired name that adds a touch of whimsy and adventure to Kennedy.
Kennedy Ford – Ford is a strong and masculine name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Gage – Gage is a name that exudes strength and resilience, making it a great complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Grant – Grant is a classic name that adds a sense of timelessness and elegance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Grey – Grey is a cool and modern name that adds a touch of sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Hayes – Hayes is a name that exudes strength and ruggedness, making it a great complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Jace – Jace is a short and snappy name that adds a touch of modernity and coolness to Kennedy.
Kennedy James – James is a classic and timeless name that adds a sense of tradition and sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Jude – Jude is a unisex name that adds a touch of modernity and gender fluidity to Kennedy.
Kennedy Kai – Kai is a nature-inspired name that adds a touch of whimsy and adventure to Kennedy.
Kennedy Knox – Knox is a strong and modern name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Lane – Lane is a cool and modern name that adds a touch of sophistication to Kennedy.
Kennedy Max – Max is a short and simple name that adds a sense of cool and laid-back style to Kennedy.
Kennedy Nash – Nash is a name that exudes strength and resilience, making it a great complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Pierce – Pierce is a strong and masculine name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Quinn – Quinn is a unisex name that adds a touch of modernity and gender fluidity to Kennedy.
Kennedy Reid – Reid is a classic and masculine name that complements Kennedy’s strong and unisex feel.
Kennedy Ross – Ross is a nature-inspired name that adds a touch of ruggedness to the strong and modern name Kennedy.
Kennedy Tate – Tate is a name that exudes strength and resilience, making it a great complement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Zane – Zane is a short and snappy name that adds a touch of modernity and coolness to Kennedy.
Overall, one-syllable middle names are a great option to pair with Kennedy because they create a balanced and streamlined combination that feels strong, modern, and unisex. These names are short and snappy, adding a sense of cool and laid-back style to the already-strong name Kennedy.
Unique Middle Names
If you’d like your baby’s name to be a little more unique, choosing an original middle name can be a great way to do that. These names are often nature-inspired or celestial, adding a sense of wonder and beauty to the already-strong name Kennedy.
Unique middle names allow parents to showcase their own sense of style and personality, creating a one-of-a-kind name combination that reflects their values and interests.
In this section, we’ll explore some ideas that you may not have considered before. The following names are anything but ordinary:
Kennedy Blue – Blue brings a crisp modern feel to this traditional name.
Kennedy Azure – Azure is a unique and nature-inspired name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Briar – Briar is a gender-neutral name that adds a touch of whimsy and nature to Kennedy.
Kennedy Cedar – Cedar is a nature-inspired name that adds a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Cove – Cove is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a touch of adventure and mystery to Kennedy.
Kennedy Dune – Dune is a nature-inspired name that adds a sense of ruggedness and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Echo – Echo is a unique and gender-neutral name that adds a touch of modernity and coolness to Kennedy.
Kennedy Fable – Fable is a unique and whimsical name that adds a sense of creativity and imagination to Kennedy.
Kennedy Harbor – Harbor is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a touch of strength and calmness to Kennedy.
Kennedy Indigo – Indigo is a unique and nature-inspired name that pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel.
Kennedy Jettison – Jettison is a unique and adventurous name that adds a touch of excitement and risk-taking to Kennedy.
Kennedy Larkspur – Larkspur is a nature-inspired name that adds a sense of beauty and elegance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Meridian – Meridian is a unique and sophisticated name that adds a sense of direction and purpose to Kennedy.
Kennedy Nova – Nova is a unique and celestial name that adds a touch of wonder and mystery to Kennedy.
Kennedy Oceana – Oceana is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a touch of calmness and serenity to Kennedy.
Kennedy Phoenix – Phoenix is a unique and gender-neutral name that adds a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Quest – Quest is a unique and adventurous name that adds a sense of purpose and excitement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Solstice – Solstice is a unique and celestial name that adds a sense of timelessness and tradition to Kennedy.
Kennedy Storm – Storm is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a touch of power and strength to Kennedy.
Kennedy Tidal – Tidal is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a sense of flow and movement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Vega – Vega is a unique and celestial name that adds a touch of wonder and beauty to Kennedy.
Kennedy Wilder – Wilder is a unique and adventurous name that adds a sense of freedom and excitement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Xanthe – Xanthe is a unique and gender-neutral name that adds a touch of creativity and imagination to Kennedy.
Kennedy Zenith – Zenith is a unique and celestial name that adds a sense of direction and purpose to Kennedy.
Kennedy Zephyr – Zephyr is a unique and nature-inspired name that adds a sense of freshness and movement to Kennedy.
Nature Inspired
If you’re a nature lover, you may be considering a nature-inspired middle name for your little one to complement the name Kennedy. A nature-inspired middle name can bring a sense of calm and tranquility to a name, while also evoking the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Kennedy Aspen – Aspen pairs well with Kennedy’s contemporary feel and adds a touch of strength and resilience.
Kennedy Cypress – Cypress adds a touch of strength and endurance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Dawn – Dawn lends a touch of freshness and new beginnings to Kennedy.
Kennedy Fern – Fern gives a sense of beauty and elegance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Forest – Forest adds a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Grove – Grove lends a sense of peacefulness and serenity to Kennedy.
Kennedy Hazel – Hazel gives a touch of warmth and comfort to Kennedy.
Kennedy Ivy – Ivy adds a touch of elegance and beauty to Kennedy.
Kennedy Juniper – Juniper lends a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Laurel – Laurel offers a sense of beauty and elegance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Maple – Maple adds a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Ocean – Ocean offers a touch of vastness and mystery to Kennedy.
Kennedy Pine – Pine gives a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Rain – Rain adds a touch of freshness and renewal to Kennedy.
Kennedy River – River adds a sense of fluidity and movement to Kennedy.
Kennedy Sage – Sage gives a touch of wisdom and strength to Kennedy.
Kennedy Sequoia – Sequoia lends a sense of strength and endurance to Kennedy.
Kennedy Sky – Sky lends a touch of vastness and wonder to Kennedy.
Kennedy Stone – Stone offers a sense of stability and strength to Kennedy.
Kennedy Storm – Storm adds a touch of power and strength to Kennedy.
Kennedy Willow – Willow gives a touch of grace and beauty to Kennedy.
Kennedy Winter – Winter gives a sense of stillness and renewal to Kennedy.
Kennedy Wolf – Wolf adds a touch of strength and resilience to Kennedy.
Kennedy Wren – Wren adds a touch of grace and beauty to Kennedy.
Nature-inspired middle names are a great option to pair with Kennedy because they add a touch of beauty, strength, and resilience to the name. These names are often inspired by the natural world, which reflects a sense of connection to the environment and a desire to honor its beauty and strength. Additionally, nature-inspired middle names can also serve as a source of inspiration for children, encouraging them to explore and appreciate the natural world around them.
Meaningful Middle Names
The name Kennedy can be interpreted as meaning “armored” since it comes from the Gaelic name “Ceannéidigh,” which means “helmeted head.”
Here are ten middle names that pair well with the meaning “armored” for Kennedy:
Kennedy Aria – Aria means “air” or “song,” which can reflect the invigorating and inspiring quality of armor.
Kennedy Bree – Bree means “strength” or “valor,” which can emphasize the protective and defensive nature of armor.
Kennedy Brynn – Brynn means “hill” or “mound,” which can represent the territorial and defensive aspect of armor.
Kennedy Enid – Enid means “soul” or “life,” which can symbolize the strength and resilience of armor.
Kennedy Maeve – Maeve means “intoxicating” or “she who intoxicates,” which can represent the invincible and powerful quality of armor.
Kennedy Rhona – Rhona means “wise ruler” or “powerful guardian,” which can reflect the protective and territorial nature of armor.
Kennedy Riona – Riona means “queenly” or “queenly warrior,” which can symbolize the commanding and imposing quality of armor.
Kennedy Sloan – Sloan means “raider” or “warrior,” which can represent the aggressive and defensive nature of armor.
Kennedy Tegan – Tegan means “fair” or “beautiful,” which can reflect the elegant and impressive quality of armor.
Kennedy Zara – Zara means “princess” or “radiant,” which can represent the majestic and imposing nature of armor.
These middle names can enhance the meaning and origin of the name Kennedy by highlighting its association with armor, which can represent strength, protection, and defense. They can also add a touch of uniqueness and femininity to the name, while still complementing its Gaelic origin and meaning.
Cultural
Names that are tied to your family’s heritage can hold a very special meaning in the family. A culturally significant middle name can honor your family’s traditions and heritage, and provide a connection to your roots.
Here’s a list of middle names that can help honor your family’s heritage:
Kennedy Mei – Mei is a Chinese name that means “beautiful” and can honor Chinese heritage.
Kennedy Amirah – Amirah is an Arabic name that means “princess” and can honor Arabic heritage.
Kennedy Yuna – Yuna is a Japanese name that means “gentle” and can honor Japanese heritage.
Kennedy Sofia – Sofia is a Greek name that means “wisdom” and can honor Greek heritage.
Kennedy Eamon – Eamon is an Irish name that means “protector” and can honor Irish heritage.
Kennedy Noor – Noor is an Arabic name that means “light” and can honor Arabic heritage.
Kennedy Avi – Avi is a Hebrew name that means “my father” and can honor Hebrew heritage.
Why Choose Kennedy?
Kennedy is a great name for a little boy or girl.
Firstly, Kennedy is a unisex name, making it a good choice for parents who want a name that can work for either gender.
Additionally, the name Kennedy has a rich history and cultural significance, as it is commonly associated with the famous political family of the same name. This can make the name a good choice for parents who value tradition and history.
Another reason why parents might choose the name Kennedy is due to its meaning. The name Kennedy is derived from the Gaelic name “Cinnéidigh,” which means “helmeted head” or “armored head.” This meaning can be interpreted as symbolizing strength and protection, which may appeal to parents who want to give their child a name that represents these qualities.
Lastly, Kennedy has a modern and contemporary feel to it, which can make it an appealing choice for parents who want a name that is both timeless and trendy. Overall, the name Kennedy has a lot to offer, from its rich history and cultural significance to its strong and protective meaning.
Alternative Spellings
There are several alternative spellings for the Kennedy that can make it a more unique name or reflect a family’s heritage. Here are some examples:
Kennedi: This spelling adds an extra “i” to the end of the name, giving it a more feminine look and feel. It may be a popular choice for parents looking for a more feminine version of the name.
Kennedee: This spelling adds an extra “e” to the end of the name, making it visually distinct from the original spelling. It could be a playful or creative choice for parents looking for a more unique variation.
Kenedy: This spelling drops one of the “n’s” from the name, giving it a simplified look and feel. It could be a good choice for parents who want to simplify the spelling while still keeping the original name intact.
Kennedie: This spelling combines the “i” and “e” at the end of the name, giving it a more creative and unconventional appearance. It may be a good choice for parents who want to add some individuality to the name.
Kenadee: This spelling replaces the “n” with an “d”, giving the name a unique twist. It could be a popular choice for parents who want a more unconventional spelling while still retaining the sound and meaning of the original name.
Ultimately, the spelling of a name is a personal choice and should reflect the preferences and values of the parents. Employing an alternative spelling can give a name a fresh and unique look, but it’s important to consider how it will be pronounced and spelled throughout the child’s life.
Nicknames for Kennedy
There are many cute nicknames that can be used for the name Kennedy. Here are a few options:
Kenny: This is a classic nickname that is often used for Kennedy.
Kenna: A popular nickname that is a shorter version of the name Kennedy.
Kenzie: This nickname is a fun and modern twist on Kennedy.
Nedy: A unique nickname that is both cute and playful.
Kenni: A cute and simple variation of the name Kennedy.
Kedy: A sweet and unique nickname that can be used for Kennedy.
Kay: This is a short and sweet nickname that can work well for Kennedy.
Enny: A cute and catchy nickname that can be a fun way to shorten Kennedy.
K-dawg: A playful and fun nickname that can work well for a spunky personality.
Kiki: A fun and lighthearted nickname that can work well for Kennedy.
Kennedy in Pop Culture
The name Kennedy has been used in several pop culture references over the years, particularly in television and film. Here are some famous people and fictional characters with the name Kennedy
John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States, whose presidency spanned from 1961 until his assassination in 1963.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: The First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, and later a successful book editor and socialite.
Kennedy McMann: An actress best known for her role as Nancy Drew in the CW series “Nancy Drew.”
Kennedy Montgomery: A character from the TV series “Scream Queens,” played by actress and singer, Peyton List.
Kennedy Logan: A character from the TV series “Veronica Mars,” played by actor Matt Czuchry.
Kennedy: A character from the TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” played by actor and singer, Charisma Carpenter.
Kennedy Shaw: A character from the TV series “The Bold and the Beautiful,” played by actor and model, Ashleigh Brewer.
Kennedy Van Buren: A character from the TV series “Gossip Girl,” played by actor and model, Laura Harring.
Kennedy: A character from the animated TV series “Clone High,” voiced by actor and comedian, Michael McDonald.
Similar Names
If you like the name Kennedy, there are several other names that you might also like.
Here are some suggestions and reasons why they might appeal to you:
Kendall: This name is similar in style to Kennedy and shares the same first letter. Both names are also unisex, making them a popular choice for both boys and girls.
Harper: This name has a similar sound and style to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Reagan: Another unisex name, Reagan has a similar strong and confident vibe as Kennedy, and is also a surname-turned-first-name.
Sloane: This name has a similar sleek and modern feel to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has been rising in popularity in recent years.
Quinn: Another unisex name, Quinn has a similar short and sweet sound to Kennedy, and is also a popular choice for parents looking for a modern and gender-neutral name.
Sawyer: This name has a similar surname-turned-first-name feel to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has been gaining in popularity.
Avery: Like Kennedy, Avery is a unisex name that has a strong and confident sound, and has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Emerson: This name has a similar surname feel to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has a modern and sophisticated vibe.
Sutton: This name has a similar sleek and modern sound to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has been gaining in popularity in recent years.
Monroe: This name has a similar surname feel to Kennedy, and is also a unisex name that has a classic and timeless appeal.
Conclusion
The name Kennedy has a rich history and a strong meaning that makes it a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and powerful name for their child.
Whether you prefer classic, one-syllable, nature-inspired, or culturally significant middle names to pair with Kennedy, there are plenty of options to choose from that can complement the name and make it a perfect match.
Ultimately, the name you choose for your child is a reflection of your own preferences and values, and with so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect name that speaks to you and your family.
A middle name is a chance to get creative and have fun while honoring family traditions or cultural backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and choose a middle name that truly represents your little one.
We hope this list has provided some helpful inspiration, and we send all our best wishes to you and your family as you welcome a precious baby girl (or baby boy!) to your family.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
