Kendra: a female name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins".It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word (MAC COINNEACH) (CINÁED) (CYNERIC) (CENRIC) (CYNWRIG) (HEIMIRICH).
Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Kendra, drawn to its Old English (Anglo-saxon) heritage and beautiful significance: "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Kendra
Quick facts about Kendra
Origin
Old English (Anglo-saxon), Germanic, Celtic
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”
Kendra is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Kendra is Ken, Kendrick, sharing the same Old English (Anglo-saxon) etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kendra
What does the name Kendra mean?
Kendra means "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”". The name comes from (MAC COINNEACH) (CINÁED) (CYNERIC) (CENRIC) (CYNWRIG) (HEIMIRICH). This old english (anglo-saxon) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kendra for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Kendra's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Kendra?
Kendra has old english (anglo-saxon) and germanic and celtic origins. The name traces back to (MAC COINNEACH) (CINÁED) (CYNERIC) (CENRIC) (CYNWRIG) (HEIMIRICH). The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old english (anglo-saxon) meaning "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kendra a boy or girl name?
Kendra is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Kendra has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”" carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kendra?
Kendra is pronounced "/ˈkɛn.drə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kendra is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old english (anglo-saxon) names, listening to a native speaker say Kendra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Kendra?
Kendra is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Kendra offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Kendra's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Kendra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Kendra?
Kendra is related to Ken, Kendrick (feminine). The feminine version Ken, Kendrick carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Kendra might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Kendra may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Kendra commonly used?
Kendra is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Kendra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "Kendra and other forms such as Kinna, Kenna, and Kenia are a feminine form of Ken and Kendrick, which in turn is the short form of Kenneth, from the (Old Irish: Coinneach and Cináed) and Kendrick, from a surname which has several different origins. The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: From the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) given names Cyneric “royal power” or Cenric “bold power,” or from the Welsh name “Cynwrig,” meaning “chief hero” It can also be an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Eanraig, meaning “son of Henry.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kendra into their naming traditions. A child named Kendra will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Kendra is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.