Makenna
mah-KEN-ah
Makenna is an Americanized spelling of McKenna, an Anglicized form of the Irish surname Mac Cionaodha, meaning “son of Cionaodh.” The personal name Cionaodh likely means “born of fire” or “keen.”
The shift from surname to given name followed a late-20th-century American pattern. Spelling variants like Makenna emerged to distance the name from its explicitly masculine “Mc-” prefix.
Makenna peaked at No. 201 in 2010 with 1,543 births. In 2024, it ranks No. 525 with 587 births, having receded from its peak-era popularity.
What the name Makenna means
The name belongs to a cluster of Mc/Mac surname names popularized for girls, including Mackenzie, McKinley, and Makayla. Together they represent a distinctive American naming trend.
Three syllables—muh-KEN-uh—carry a snappy central stress that gives the name energy and presence. The open final vowel adds feminine softness to the surname-style sound.
Parents who choose Makenna appreciate its spirited sound and Irish heritage without the formality of traditional Gaelic names. It feels athletic and contemporary.
Variants include McKenna (prefix form), Makena (simplified), and Kenna (short form). The Swahili word makena also means “happy one,” adding a cross-cultural layer.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Makenna
Makenna - similar names
Not seeing what you want? Browse all names by origin or popularity