Kelvin

What does the baby name Kelvin mean? Learn about what Kelvin means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Kelvin - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Kelvin: K-E-L-V-I-N, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Kelvin: KEL vin
Meaning of Kelvin: From the narrow river or river man, a river of scotland, from the river kelvin, friend of ships, from the river clyde.
Origin of Kelvin: The name 'Kelvin' has its origins in Scotland. It is derived from the Scottish surname MacCoinnich, which means 'son of Coinneach'. Coinneach is a Gaelic name that translates to 'handsome' or 'comely'. The earliest known use of the name 'Kelvin' can be traced back to the 19th century, when it started gaining popularity in Scotland and eventually spread to other English-speaking countries.; American Names; Celtic Names; English Names; Nature Names; Old English Names; Place Names; Scottish Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Kelvin: Calvan; Calven; Calvin; Kelvan; Kelven; Kelwin
Popularity of Kelvin: While 'Kelvin' may not be as common as some other names, it has seen a steady rise in popularity over the years. In the early 20th century, the name 'Kelvin' was relatively rare, but it began to gain traction in the 1970s and 1980s. It reached its peak popularity in the 1990s, when it ranked among the top 500 names for boys in the United States. Since then, its popularity has slightly declined, but it still remains a beloved choice for many parents.; Kelvin currently has 219 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name August is slightly more popular than Kelvin.

Etymology of Kelvin

The etymology of the name 'Kelvin' can be traced back to the Scottish Gaelic language. The name Coinneach, from which 'Kelvin' is derived, is composed of two elements 'coinn' meaning 'fair' or 'handsome', and 'each' meaning 'horse'. This combination of words paints a vivid picture of a person who is not only attractive but also possesses the strength and grace of a horse.

Cultural Significance of Kelvin

The name 'Kelvin' holds cultural significance in Scotland, where it originated. In Scottish history and folklore, the name Coinneach is associated with a legendary figure known as Coinneach Odhar, or Kenneth O'Connor. He was believed to possess the gift of second sight, the ability to see into the future. This mystical connection has added an air of intrigue to the name 'Kelvin', making it all the more captivating for those who choose it for their children.