All about the name

Kes

Female

« Kes is a Scottish male name derived from the Gaelic word 'Cais', meaning 'ash tree'. »

#39221 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Kes is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Cais" which means "ash tree". The name Kes is traditionally given to boys and has been used in Scotland for centuries. The earliest record of the name Kes can be traced back to the 13th century in Scotland. In those times, it was often spelled as "Kess" or " Kais". Over time, the spelling evolved into the more modern version we know today, Kes. In Scottish history and literature, there are several notable figures with the name Kes. One of them is Kes O'Sullivan, a legendary Scottish outlaw who lived in the 16th century. He was known for his bravery and cunning, and his exploits have been passed down through generations in Scottish folklore. The name Kes has also appeared in modern literature and popular culture. For instance, it is the title character's name in Barry Hines' novel "A Kestrel for a Knave", which was later adapted into the film "Kes". The story follows a working-class boy named Kes who finds solace and freedom in training his pet kestrel. Today, Kes remains a relatively uncommon name but is still used by families in Scotland and beyond. It is often associated with Scottish heritage and culture. Despite its specific origins, people with the name Kes can be found across the globe, each bringing their unique perspective to this historic name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Kes since 1880

Total births
33
Total since 1880
Peak year
2000
12 births
in 2000
12
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0% →
vs previous 5 years