King

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

King - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of King: K-I-N-G, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of King: KING
Meaning of King: Monarch, ruler, leader, king's forest clearing, king.
Origin of King: The name 'King' has its roots in the English language. It is derived from the Old English word 'cyning', which means 'ruler' or 'leader'. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in England, where it was used as a title for a monarch or a nobleman. Over time, it transitioned from being a title to becoming a surname and eventually a given name.; African American Names; American Names; Anglo Saxon Names; English Names; Old English Names; Pet Names; President Names; Royal Names; Surname Names
Popularity of King: The popularity of the name 'King' has fluctuated over time. In the early 1900s, it was a relatively uncommon name, with only a few recorded instances. However, in recent years, the name has experienced a notable spike in usage. According to data from the Social Security Administration, the name 'King' ranked 192nd in popularity for boys in the United States in 2020. This rise in popularity can be attributed to various factors, including the influence of popular culture and the appeal of strong and distinctive names.; King currently has 5 likes, and is in the top 8% of liked boy's names. The name Akanni is slightly more popular than King.

Etymology of King

The etymology of the name 'King' can be traced back to the Germanic word 'kuningaz', which means 'king' or 'ruler'. This word is also related to the Old Norse word 'konungr' and the Old High German word 'kuning'. These linguistic roots highlight the name's connection to leadership and authority.

Cultural Significance of King

The name 'King' holds significant cultural meaning in various contexts. In many cultures, the title of 'king' represents the highest form of leadership and power. It is associated with notions of royalty, sovereignty, and divine right. In medieval Europe, kings were seen as the chosen representatives of God on Earth, and their names carried immense weight and importance.