Kendra is a name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is believed to have been derived from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, which means "fair and smooth". However, some sources suggest that Kendra may also be a variant of the Scottish name Kendrea, which means "from the borderland".
The name Kendra first appeared in the United States during the early 20th century, but it was not until the 1970s that it began to gain widespread popularity. Today, Kendra is considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly used for girls.
One notable historical figure named Kendra is Kendra Wilkinson, an American television personality and model who gained fame as one of the original cast members of the reality television series "Girls Next Door". However, despite her popularity, Wilkinson's name has not significantly impacted the usage or perception of the name Kendra.
Overall, Kendra is a unique and distinctive name with a mysterious origin that continues to grow in popularity. Its meanings related to beauty and smoothness make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a name that stands out from the crowd.
The name Kendra has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the years, with its highest point being in 1986 when there were 2759 births, followed by another peak in 1987 with 3841 births. However, since then, there has been a steady decline, reaching an all-time low in recent years, with only 377 births recorded in 2023. In total, from 1936 to 2023, the name Kendra has been given to 97688 newborns.