Origin and Meaning of Mckenley

Meaning & Origin

Son of the warrior / Small hill

Origin: Scottish - Derived from the Scottish surname McKinley, which combines the Gaelic prefix 'Mac' meaning 'son of' and the Old Norse word 'vin' meaning 'meadow' or 'clearing'.

Interesting Facts

  • Mckenley is often used as both a first name and a surname, and has gained popularity as a given name in recent decades.
  • While primarily of Scottish origin, variations of the name can be found in different cultures, especially in the United States where it has become a trendy unisex name.
  • Notable bearers include Mckenley Smith, an influential personality in social media and entertainment.
  • Mckenley's popularity has risen significantly in the 21st century, particularly for girls, often appearing in the top 200 names for females in various regions in the U.S.
  • Related names include Kenley, Kinsley, and Kinley, which share similar phonetic elements and origins.