Kendal is a unisex given name of English origin, derived from the Old Norse word "kendill" which means "bold warrior". The name Kendal is associated with the historic market town of Kendal in Cumbria, England, and has been used as a given name since at least the 19th century. It is also sometimes used as a surname.
The name Kendal gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century and has remained relatively popular ever since. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Kendal ranked among the top 1,000 most popular boys' names in the US between 1970 and 2007, and among the top 1,000 most popular girls' names between 1988 and 2007.
Overall, Kendal is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history dating back to medieval England. Its meaning of "bold warrior" adds to its appeal as a name that conveys confidence and strength. Whether used as a given name or surname, Kendal is sure to stand out and make an impression.
The name Kendal experienced varied popularity over the years, with a significant rise from the late 1980s onwards. Between 1951 and 1969, there were fewer than 20 births per year on average. However, starting from 1970, the number of annual births began to increase, reaching over 30 by the mid-1980s. The name's peak popularity occurred between 1993 and 2004, with an average of around 300 births per year during this period. Since then, the popularity of Kendal has decreased, with fewer than 100 births annually from 2016 onwards. In total, there have been approximately 9030 births named Kendal between 1951 and 2023.