“from the meadow of the Royal Fortress” — Associated with the 'gender-neutral' trend
English origin · Girl name
♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls
#222US 2023
1.3kBirths / yr
↓Falling
844.2kAll-time births
📅 Since 1933🏆 57 years in top 1001.91% of births at peak
How to pronounce Kimberly
KIMB·er·lee
/ˈkɪmb.ɝ.liː/ · stress on KIMB · 3 syllables
“from the meadow of the Royal Fortress”
Associated with the 'gender-neutral' trend · English origin
What does Kimberly mean and where does it come from?
The name Kimberly has Old English roots, deriving from the place name 'Kimberly' in Norfolk, England. The name became popular in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, after it was used in the 1960s, associated with the 'gender-neutral' trend. It has also gained popularity through vari
Cultural significance
Kimberly has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the meadow of the royal fortress.
Declining — down 12 spots — currently #222 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1935–2023#222 · Top 0.16%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#222
1,336
▼ down 12 · -4% births
2022
#210
1,392
▲ up 11 · +3% births
2021
#221
1,350
▼ down 36 · -13% births
2020
#185
1,548
▼ down 77 · -45% births
2015
#108
2,838
▼ down 39 · -27% births
2010
#69
3,869
▼ down 6 · -19% births
2005
#63
4,751
▼ down 5 · -9% births
2000
#58
5,244
▼ down 21 · -32% births
1995
#37
7,745
▼ down 6 · -24% births
1990
#31
10,194
▼ down 12 · -32% births
1985
#19
14,913
▼ down 8 · -19% births
1980
#11
18,500
▼ down 4 · -9% births
1975
#7
20,263
▼ down 4 · -41% births
1970
#3
34,136
▲ up 1 · +18% births
1965
#4
28,830
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kimberly
1970Rank #3
34,136
#449
↗Rising
1935 - 202321 years
The story of Kimberly
Kimberly entered American naming records in 1933 and has been in use for over 91 years. It peaked at #2 in 1966, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 844K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3720 in 1935 to #222 in 2023. Kimberly is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Kimberly means "from the meadow of the Royal Fortress" — a name rooted in English 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 Kimberly?
Kimberly is currently ranked #222 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kimberly?
Kimberly originates from English tradition. English 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 Kimberly?
Kimberly is a three-syllable name pronounced K IH1 M B ER0 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Kimberly?
Kimberly pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar English heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Kimberly
For a sister
Kimberly & Mark♡
Kimberly & Lane♡
Kimberly & Derek♡
Kimberly & Jane♡
For a brother
Kimberly & Mark♡
Kimberly & Steven♡
Kimberly & Lane♡
Kimberly & Derek♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#222
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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