Kindly K's

  1. Kai
    • Origin:

      Hawaiian, Frisian, Chinese
    • Meaning:

      "sea; warrior; triumph"
    • Description:

      Kai is an internationally flexible name with many possible origins and meanings, growing in popularity in the US and a diverse range of European countries.
  2. Kain
    • Description:

      Kain is a masculine name that represents an alternative spelling of Cain, one of the most ancient names in Judeo-Christian tradition. In biblical accounts, Cain was the first son of Adam and Eve who famously killed his brother Abel. Despite these challenging associations, the name has persisted throughout history and across cultures. The spelling variant Kain offers a slight modernization that some parents prefer. The name derives from Hebrew origins, possibly meaning "acquired" or "possession." Beyond biblical connections, Kain has appeared in various cultural contexts, including literature, gaming, and music, giving it a multifaceted character. While never extremely common, the name has maintained a steady presence, appealing to parents seeking a short, strong-sounding name with historical depth and a touch of complexity.

  3. Kaitrin
    • Description:

      Kaitrin is a feminine name that represents a distinctive variation of Katherine, with Irish and Scottish Gaelic influences. It combines elements of the popular names Kaitlyn and Catrin (the Welsh form of Katherine). Derived ultimately from the Greek name Aikaterine, it carries the meaning "pure." Kaitrin offers a fresh alternative to more common Katherine derivatives while maintaining the name's classic heritage. The spelling with "K" gives it a modern edge, while the overall form connects to centuries of use across European cultures. Though relatively uncommon, Kaitrin appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic flair that remains recognizable and pronounceable. Its melody combines strength and femininity in balanced measure.
  4. Kalila
    • Origin:

      Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "beloved"
    • Description:

      The lilting name of a range of mythical mountains, with an extensive menu of spellings, and a more unusual way of fitting in with current favorites Lila and Lola.
  5. Kassiani
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "cinnamon"
    • Description:

      Kassiani, also spelled Kasiani or Cassiane, is an ancient Greek name best known as the name of a saint famous as a hymnographer. The Hymn of Kassiani, traditionally sung on Tuesday of Easter Week in the Greek Orthodox Church, is associated with fallen women. The 9th century saint Kassiani was supposed to be in love with the Emperor Theophilos, who rejected her when she proved to be more intelligent than he.
  6. Kateri
    • Origin:

      Mohawk variation of Katherine
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      St. Kateri Teckakwitha is the first Native American saint, canonized in 2012. St. Kateri was the daughter of a Mohawk warrior, born in 1656 in upstate New York. She converted to Christianity at age 20 and died at 24, and was known as "Lily of the Mohawk." Kateri was the name the saint took on, a native variation of Katherine, upon her baptism.
  7. Keegan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Egan"
    • Description:

      Keegan is one of a clan of spirited Irish surnames starting with K and ending with 'n'--this one with the cheery double 'e' in the middle-- that are appealing to an increasing number of parents. It derives from Mac Aodhagáin, meaning "son (or descendant) of Aodhagán," a diminutive of the Irish name Aodh--pronounced Aye.
  8. Keeley
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "slender"
    • Description:

      Keeley is well-used in modern Ireland, also found as Keely and Keela. The boys' form is Keelan. Largely unknown in the US, this could make an interesting update for Kelly or Kaylie or Kylie. A famous bearer is actress Keeley Hawes.
  9. Keenan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "ancient"
    • Description:

      This name of three ancient saints, one Wayans brother, and an NFL wide receiver makes an energetic choice.
  10. Keenan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "ancient"
    • Description:

      A lively boys' name that works well for girls.
  11. Keeva
    • Origin:

      Irish, phonetic spelling of Caoimhe
    • Meaning:

      "gentle, beautiful, precious"
    • Description:

      Keeva, the name chosen by "How I Met Your Mother" star Alyson Hannigan for her daughter, has recently been a Top 20 name in Ireland, using the authentic spelling Caoimhe. The male version is Caomhin--anglicized as Kevin.
  12. Keoni
    • Origin:

      Hawaiian variation of John
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      Keoni is one of the lesser-used international forms of John, but it has an on-trend sound that many parents may find appealing, perhaps as an alternative honor name. As well as Hawaii, it is also given to one or two dozen boys in California each year.
  13. Kerensa
    • Origin:

      Cornish
    • Meaning:

      "love"
    • Description:

      Kerensa, forever romantic, is a rare Cornish name spelled with an 's' or 'z', the most modern of the Karen family. Kerensa (or Kerenza) has ties to the Welsh Cerys.
  14. Keziah
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "cassia tree"
    • Description:

      This lively Old Testament nature name (belonging to one of the three beautiful daughters of Job) may be missing from the current US Top 1000 list, but it ranks highly here on Nameberry — making it one to watch!
  15. Kiernan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "little dark one"
    • Description:

      Although this surname name is closely related to the more common Irish name Kieran, Kiernan is also a well used family name, tied to thirty-three ancient chieftains. It has on a few occasions been used for girls.
  16. Krissy
    • Description:

      Krissy is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Christina or Kristina, ultimately derived from the Greek word 'Christos' meaning 'anointed one.' This affectionate nickname began appearing as an independent given name in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when informal names gained popularity. Krissy conveys a perpetually youthful, friendly quality with its diminutive -y ending. While it peaked several decades ago, it remains recognized as a cheerful, approachable name. Some parents now choose it as a formal name rather than using the longer Christina, appreciating its unpretentious charm. The name maintains connections to the Christian tradition while offering a casual, familiar feel.