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Definition of kennedy
kennedy
/ˈkɛn.ə.di/
Ken · ne · dy
Plural:Kennedys
kennedy Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
5
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
• noun
1
American A prominent American political and business family that has included a President of the United States, senators, ambassadors, and other major public figures.
Example
"The tragic events surrounding the Kennedys in the 1960s left a lasting mark on American history."
2
A common surname of Irish and Scottish origin, historically associated with a powerful dynasty in Munster, Ireland.
Example
"She researched the origins of the surname Kennedy to trace her family ancestry back to County Tipperary."
• Rhymes for kennedy
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the Irish Gaelic surname 'Ó Cinnéide', meaning 'grandson of Cinnédidh'. The personal name Cinnédidh is traditionally thought to mean 'helmet-headed' or 'grim-headed', combining 'ceann' (head) and 'éide' (armor).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kennedy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kennedy