Kimberly is a name of English origin that has gained popularity worldwide in recent decades. It is derived from the word "kimpel," which means "ruler" or "chief." However, some sources suggest that Kimberly may also have Scottish origins, where it was used as a place name for a forest glade or clearing.
The meaning of Kimberly varies depending on its origin. If it comes from the English word "kimpel," then Kimberly means "ruler" or "chief." Alternatively, if Kimberly has Scottish origins, it may mean "forest glade" or "clearing."
Throughout history, Kimberly has been popular among various cultures and societies. In England, for example, the name was used as early as the 16th century. However, its popularity began to rise significantly in the United States during the mid-20th century.
Today, Kimberly is still a widely-used name around the world. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it was one of the top 500 names for girls born in the United States in 2019. In addition, variations of Kimberly such as Kim, Kimberley, and Kimberlee have also gained popularity in recent years.
Overall, Kimberly is a name with rich historical roots and diverse meanings. Its popularity has waxed and waned over time, but it remains a beloved choice for parents looking to give their daughter a strong and distinctive name.
Based on the statistics provided, we can observe the trend of babies named Kimberly born annually in the United States between 1957 and 1994.
The name Kimberly first appeared in 1957 with five births. The following year, there were also five births, indicating that it was starting to gain popularity. In 1959, the number of babies named Kimberly increased to eight, showing a steady rise in its usage as a baby name.
Between 1960 and 1967, the number of Kimberly births fluctuated between seven and 22, indicating varying levels of popularity during these years. However, from 1968 onwards, the trend shows a consistent increase in the usage of this name. Between 1968 and 1974, there were between 22 and 26 births each year for Kimberly.
Interestingly, there was a significant drop in popularity in 1975 with only ten births recorded that year. This could indicate a shift in naming preferences during this period. However, the name began to regain its popularity in subsequent years, reaching as high as 20 and 17 births between 1978 and 1980.
Despite some fluctuations, Kimberly remained a popular name throughout the decades of the 60s, 70s, and early 80s. However, there was another notable drop in popularity after 1982, with fewer than ten births recorded annually between 1983 and 1990.
By 1994, the total number of babies named Kimberly born in the United States reached 532 since 1957. Although it may not be as popular today, these statistics demonstrate that Kimberly was a widely used baby name during its peak decades. It's fascinating to observe how naming trends can change over time and across generations.
In conclusion, while Kimberly has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years, it remains an enduring name with a significant history in the United States. These statistics serve as a testament to the lasting impact that this name has had on American baby naming trends.