Ken Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งโ๐ค
ken
[kษn ]
Definition
name, doll
Ken is a male doll character produced by the American toy company Mattel, introduced in 1961. He is often portrayed as the companion of Barbie and has become a cultural icon associated with the Barbie brand.
Synonyms
Barbie's counterpart, Ken Carson, male doll.
Examples of usage
- My sister has a collection of Ken dolls.
- Ken's new outfit is a stylish addition to his wardrobe.
- The movie features Barbie and Ken on an adventurous journey.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term appears in famous works, such as Robert Burns' poetry, highlighting themes of understanding and knowledge.
- In modern literature, 'ken' is often used to convey the idea of personal insight or profound understanding.
Pop Culture
- The word has made appearances in popular songs, often linked with themes of awareness or enlightenment.
- In video gaming, 'ken' sometimes refers to characters' comprehension of game mechanics or lore, enhancing player engagement.
Psychology
- Cognitive psychology explores how a person's 'ken' can affect learning and memory, influencing how they perceive new information.
- People's 'ken' varies greatly, shaped by personal experiences and backgrounds, affecting their worldview.
Philosophy
- Philosophically, 'ken' delves into epistemology, the study of knowledgeโwhat it means to truly know something.
- Debates exist on the limits of human 'ken,' raising questions about the nature of reality and our ability to understand it.
Origin of 'ken'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Old English word 'cennan,' meaning 'to make known' or 'to show.'
- Historically used in different dialects of Scottish English, linking back to the concept of awareness and perception.
The name 'Ken' is derived from the Scottish Gaelic name 'Coinneach', which means 'handsome'. It first gained popularity in the 20th century as a given name, often associated with masculinity and charm. In 1961, Mattel introduced 'Ken' as part of the Barbie franchise, where he was styled as Barbie's boyfriend and featured various careers and styles over the decades. The introduction of Ken aimed to add a more diverse range of characters to the Barbie world while also enticing boys to engage with traditional dolls. Over the years, Ken has undergone numerous transformations, mirroring changes in fashion and societal norms, thereby influencing the perception of masculinity in popular culture.