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Kemper Unisex

Popularity: #899 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationKEM-per / /ˈkɛmpər/

English; German

Meaning

English: warrior; German: from the edge of the meadow

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Kemper has its roots in the Germanic language, deriving from the Old High German word "kemper," which means "warrior" or "champion." This term is related to the Middle Dutch "kemper," which also carries the connotation of a fighter or a champion in battle. The name made its way into English through the influence of German settlers and the migration of Germanic tribes into England during the early medieval period, particularly around the 5th to 7th centuries. As a result, Kemper can be seen as a name that embodies strength and valor, reflecting the martial heritage of its linguistic origins.

Historically, the name Kemper has been associated with various notable figures, particularly in German-speaking regions. During the Middle Ages, the name was borne by individuals who were often involved in military or noble pursuits, aligning with its meaning. The name also appears in various historical documents and records from the 12th century onward, indicating its use among the nobility and warrior classes. Additionally, the name may have been carried by individuals who participated in significant events, such as the Crusades, which were prominent from the late 11th century to the late 13th century.

Culturally, the name Kemper resonates with themes of bravery and honor, often associated with the ideals of chivalry and knighthood prevalent in medieval Europe. The name has been preserved in various forms and has been adopted in different cultures, maintaining its connotation of strength. While diminutive forms or variations may exist, the name Kemper itself has retained a consistent identity throughout its history, symbolizing a connection to the warrior spirit and the valorous traditions of its Germanic roots.

Trend Summary

The name Kemper has seen limited popularity in the United States.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Kemper

Kemper Freeman is a businessman best known for founding the Kemper Development Company and developing The Bellevue Collection.

Kemper Lesnik is a public relations executive best known for his work with various high-profile clients and events.

Fictional characters named Kemper

Kemper is a fictional character from the film The Silence of the Lambs. He is a serial killer whose actions are central to the investigation led by FBI trainee Clarice Starling.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Kemper was first seen in the United States in 1912. Kemper has ranked as high as #1308 nationally, which occurred in 2009, and has been most popular in Virginia, Texas, Kansas, Ohio, and Missouri. In the past 5 years the name Kemper has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Kemper (2016)

StateBirthsShare
KS 5
50%
MS 5
50%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19125
19136
191513
19167
19176
191813
191913
19209
192112
19225
192311
19248
19268
19279
19286
19298
19306
19315
19325
19347
19357
19365
19377
194011
19418
19425
19436
194410
19468
194717
19486
19497
19507
19517
19538
195415
195510
19567
19578
19585
19597
196011
19617
196211
196310
19647
19656
19667
196714
19688
19708
197111
19727
197310
19758
19787
19795
19825
19838
19845
198512
19869
19875
19887
19907
199112
199211
19937
19947
199512
199610
199713
199810
199910
20008
200113
200211
200315
200455
200558
200657
200749
200844
200970
201053
201148
201260
201350
201442
201554
201639
201743
201839
201924
202026
202120
202229
202332
202425