Kimberly

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What does the baby name Kimberly mean? Learn about what Kimberly means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Kimberly - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Kimberly
K-I-M-B-E-R-L-Y, is a 8-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Kimberly
KIM-bər-lee
KIM bur lee
Meaning of Kimberly
Fortress meadow, from the meadow of the royal fortress, cyneburg's clearing, ruler.
Origin of Kimberly
The name 'Kimberly' is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'cyneburg' and 'leah', which mean 'royal fortress' or 'royal meadow'. The name 'Kimberly' has its roots in the medieval period and was originally used as a surname before becoming a given name.
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Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Kimberly
Kim
Kimba
Kimber
Kimmie
Popularity of Kimberly
The name 'Kimberly' gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. It became particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s and reached its peak in the 1980s. 'Kimberly' was consistently ranked among the top 20 most popular names for girls in the United States during this time. While its popularity has declined in recent years, 'Kimberly' remains a familiar and recognizable name.
Kimberly currently has 887 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Autumn is slightly more popular than Kimberly.

Etymology of Kimberly

The etymology of 'Kimberly' can be traced back to its Old English origins. The element 'cyneburg' means 'royal' or 'belonging to a royal family', while 'leah' refers to a meadow or clearing. Therefore, the name 'Kimberly' can be interpreted as 'royal fortress' or 'royal meadow'. This etymology reflects the noble and regal connotations associated with the name.

Cultural Significance of Kimberly

'Kimberly' does not hold specific cultural or historical significance beyond its English origins. However, it has become a widely recognized and used name in English-speaking countries. The popularity of 'Kimberly' during the 20th century may be attributed to its pleasant sound and its association with femininity and grace.