Meaning, origin, history
Kimberly is a name of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "cumbria," which means "from the land by the river Cumbro." The name was originally used to denote someone who came from Cumberland, an historic county in northwest England located along the River Eden.
The spelling Kimberly gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, particularly after the California Gold Rush. Many settlers moved westwards and named their daughters Kimberly, associating the name with beauty, strength, and resilience – qualities reminiscent of the land they had left behind or were now exploring.
The name Kimberly has been popular among parents for generations, with its peak popularity occurring in the United States during the 1970s. Today, it remains a classic choice, beloved for its timelessness and connection to England's rich history.
In literature, notable characters named Kimberly include Kimberly "Kim" Bauer from the television series "24" and Kimberly "Kim" Possible from the animated series "Kim Possible." These portrayals have further popularized the name and may influence parents' decisions when naming their daughters.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Kimbrely since 1880
Total births
78
Total since 1880
Peak year
1965
13 births
in 1983
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years