Kensley
96% girls · 4% boys
About Kensley
Kensley as a masculine name represents an interesting gender crossover in naming trends. Originally emerging as a surname derived from a place name combining 'Ken' (possibly meaning 'royal' or from a water source) and 'ley' (meaning 'meadow' or 'clearing'), Kensley has more commonly been used for girls in recent years. However, its strong sound and '-ley' ending (similar to traditionally male names like Bradley and Wesley) make it suitable for boys as well. The name has a contemporary, preppy feel while maintaining connections to English heritage. For boys, it offers a unique option that balances sophistication with approachability. The name has gained modest popularity in the United States since the early 2000s, particularly in southern states.
Kensley for girls#742 US
Similar to Kinsley, this modern choice has become much more popular in recent years; it first entered the Top 1000 in 2011. Part of its appeal might be that it sounds reminiscent of the overly-popular McKenzie.
Pronounced KENZ-lee.
As of October 2026, Kensley ranked #5729 for boys and #742 for girls in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #5147 for boys in 2024 and #424 for girls in 2018.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank | Births | Per million |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #606 | 480 | 268.7 |
| 2015 | #639 | 446 | 249.8 |
| 2016 | #523 | 595 | 335.8 |
| 2017 | #480 | 648 | 375.3 |
| 2018 | #424 | 738 | 433.8 |
| 2019 | #477 | 656 | 390.9 |
| 2020 | #454 | 680 | 420.6 |
| 2021 | #563 | 544 | 331.5 |
| 2022 | #614 | 485 | 295.7 |
| 2023 | #754 | 374 | 233.1 |
| 2024 | #741 | 378 | 233.3 |
| 2025 | #742 | 367 | 228.3 |
World rankings
Kensley for girls
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Kensley on lists
Famous Kensleys
- Kensley ReeceGirl
Barbadian male cyclist
- Kensley Warren Alferio (b. 2012)Girl
quintuplet of Jake and Leann Alferio