Kenaz is a name of Norse origin, derived from the Old Norse word "kenaz", which means "torch" or "beacon". It was one of the runes in the Anglo-Saxon futhorc, an early Germanic writing system. In Norse mythology, Kenaz was associated with the god Loki, who was known for his wit and cunning.
The name Kenaz is believed to have been used as a personal name during the Viking Age, around 800-1100 AD. It may have been given to children in honor of the rune or the god Loki, or perhaps as a wish for them to be bright and shining like a torch.
Today, Kenaz is not a common name, but it is still used occasionally. It is often spelled in various ways, such as Kenaz, Cenath, Keneth, or Kenneth. Despite its rarity, Kenaz remains a unique and distinctive name with a rich history rooted in Norse mythology and culture.
The name Kenaz has seen a varied number of births over the past two decades in the United States. Starting with nine births in 1999, the popularity of the name fluctuated annually, reaching a peak of twelve births in 2008. Following this high point, the number of Kenaz births dipped to eight in 2009 before stabilizing around five to ten births per year from 2012 to 2023.
In total, there have been 124 babies named Kenaz born in the United States between 1999 and 2023. While the name's popularity has ebbed and flowed over time, it has maintained a consistent presence among newborns during this period.