What does Kimball mean and where does it come from?
Kimball is traditionally a surname that has transitioned into a given name, primarily for females in recent years. The name originates from Old English and indicates a connection to nature, with influences from feudal and military histories. It had recorded use as a first name in the United States a
Cultural significance
Kimball has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of warrior's meadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #2873 in 1957 — currently #1255 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kimball?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kimball?
Kimball works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kimball Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kimball Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kimball Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kimball Claire
French influence · crisp
Kimball Jane
Literary · strong
Kimball Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kimball right now?
Holding steady — currently #1255 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1255 | 945 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1260 | 925 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1265 | 895 | ▲ up 12028 · +14817% births |
| 2000 | #13293 | 6 | ▼ down 8726 · -33% births |
| 1960 | #4567 | 9 | ▲ up 1548 · +80% births |
| 1955 | #6115 | 5 | — |
The story of Kimball
Kimball entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. With 2,101 total births recorded, Kimball remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6115 in 1955 to #1255 in 2023. Kimball is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kimball in 1957:
Kimball by decade
Kimball peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 46 | |
| 1920s | 76 | |
| 1930s | 36 | |
| 1940s | 185 | |
| 1950s ★ | 535 | |
| 1960s | 329 | |
| 1970s | 164 | |
| 1980s | 122 | |
| 1990s | 156 | |
| 2000s | 268 | |
| 2010s | 176 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎With 2,101 total births, Kimball is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kimball?
What names sound and feel like Kimball?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kimball also consider these
Common questions about the name Kimball
What does the name Kimball mean?
Kimball means "Warrior's meadow" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Kimball?
Kimball is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kimball?
Kimball originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Kimball?
Kimball is a two-syllable name pronounced K IH1 M B AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kimball a common or rare name?
Kimball is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.