Meaning & Origin
A diminutive of the male given name Kenneth.
Kenny is a boy's and girl's baby name of Scottish Gaelic origin, a familiar form of Kenneth, which derives from the Gaelic Cainnech meaning 'handsome' or 'fire-born.' For generations, Kenny has worked as both a standalone name and a nickname with genuine warmth.
From Kenny Rogers to Kenny Chesney, the name has a distinctly American country and folk quality — approachable, unpretentious, and friendly. It peaked in mid-20th century popularity but still carries that easy charm that never fully goes out of style.