Kilmer is a unique and distinctive male given name of Irish origin. The name is derived from the ancient Irish surname "Ó Ceallmhí," which means "descendant of Ceallmhí." The personal name Ceallmhí is thought to be composed of two elements, the first being "cell" meaning "church" or "monastery," and the second being a diminutive suffix "-mhí."
The surname Kilmer, like many Irish surnames, originated from a Gaelic sept, a group of people who shared a common ancestor. The Ó Ceallmhí sept was located in County Tyrone in Ulster, Ireland.
Throughout history, the Kilmer name has been associated with notable individuals. One famous bearer of the surname is Val Kilmer, an American actor known for his roles in films such as "Top Gun," "The Doors," and "Batman Forever." However, it's important to note that while Val Kilmer is a well-known public figure, this should not overshadow the rich history and heritage associated with the name Kilmer.
In conclusion, Kilmer is an Irish male given name with a unique and meaningful origin. Derived from the ancient Irish surname Ó Ceallmí, it carries the meaning of "descendant of Ceallmí," which is connected to the concept of church or monastery. Throughout history, individuals with the Kilmer surname have made significant contributions in various fields, making this name one that stands out due to its rich heritage and notable bearers.
Kilmer is an uncommon given name in the United States, with a notable decline in its usage over time. In 1919, there were 8 births registered with the name Kilmer. However, by 1997, this number had decreased to just 6 births. This decline suggests that the popularity of the name Kilmer has diminished over the years. Despite the decrease in recent decades, a total of 14 babies have been named Kilmer in the United States since records began.