A small, graceful falcon
Derived from the name of a small bird of prey in the falcon family, known for its ability to hover in mid-air while hunting. The word likely originates from the Old French 'crecerelle', referring to the bird's shrill cry. As a name, it represents agility, keen vision, and a connection to the natural world.
Less common today
Kestrel isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #6,289 in 2019.
A protagonist and skilled fighter Β· The Winner's Curse
A young girl with a magical connection to birds Β· The Kestrel by Lloyd Alexander
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).