Kimber Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: KIM-ber //ˈkɪm.bər//
Origin: English; Scottish
Meaning: English: From the meadow; Scottish: From the royal fortress
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kimber has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "cyning," meaning "king," combined with the suffix "-ber," which is related to the word for "fortress" or "stronghold." This etymological combination suggests a meaning akin to "royal fortress" or "king's fortress." The name likely evolved through various forms, including the Old English "Cyneburh," before being adapted into a more recognizable form in Middle English. The transition into modern English occurred as linguistic shifts took place during the Middle Ages, particularly influenced by the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, which introduced a variety of new names and linguistic elements into the English language.
Historically, the name Kimber has been associated with various notable figures and events. While it does not have a direct biblical reference, it shares phonetic similarities with names that have biblical significance, such as Kimball, which is derived from the Old English "cyne" (royal) and "beald" (bold).
The name has also appeared in various historical texts and documents, particularly in England, where it was used as a surname before becoming popular as a given name. The use of Kimber as a first name became more common in the 20th century, reflecting broader naming trends that favored unique and nature-inspired names.
Culturally, the name Kimber resonates with themes of strength and nobility, reflecting its etymological roots. It has been embraced in various literary and artistic contexts, often symbolizing resilience and leadership.
The name may also be associated with the diminutive form "Kim," which has been widely used as a standalone name or as a nickname for Kimberley or Kimber. This connection further emphasizes the name's adaptability and enduring appeal throughout different eras.
Fictional characters named Kimber
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kimber was first seen in the United States in 1951. Kimber has ranked as high as #925 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Tennessee. In the past 5 years the name Kimber has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kimber (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 31 | |
| TN | 20 | |
| KY | 14 | |
| MO | 14 | |
| OH | 13 | |
| OK | 12 | |
| AR | 11 | |
| GA | 11 | |
| IL | 9 | |
| AZ | 8 | |
| CA | 8 | |
| CO | 8 | |
| FL | 8 | |
| WV | 7 | |
| MS | 7 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1951 | 6 |
| 1952 | 16 |
| 1953 | 17 |
| 1954 | 21 |
| 1955 | 29 |
| 1956 | 52 |
| 1957 | 59 |
| 1958 | 58 |
| 1959 | 74 |
| 1960 | 75 |
| 1961 | 76 |
| 1962 | 79 |
| 1963 | 73 |
| 1964 | 98 |
| 1965 | 85 |
| 1966 | 63 |
| 1967 | 67 |
| 1968 | 70 |
| 1969 | 66 |
| 1970 | 63 |
| 1971 | 58 |
| 1972 | 67 |
| 1973 | 47 |
| 1974 | 41 |
| 1975 | 31 |
| 1976 | 43 |
| 1977 | 38 |
| 1978 | 50 |
| 1979 | 39 |
| 1980 | 48 |
| 1981 | 47 |
| 1982 | 46 |
| 1983 | 56 |
| 1984 | 64 |
| 1985 | 79 |
| 1986 | 88 |
| 1987 | 142 |
| 1988 | 240 |
| 1989 | 180 |
| 1990 | 188 |
| 1991 | 166 |
| 1992 | 135 |
| 1993 | 123 |
| 1994 | 152 |
| 1995 | 106 |
| 1996 | 80 |
| 1997 | 80 |
| 1998 | 66 |
| 1999 | 67 |
| 2000 | 45 |
| 2001 | 61 |
| 2002 | 58 |
| 2003 | 49 |
| 2004 | 77 |
| 2005 | 102 |
| 2006 | 161 |
| 2007 | 196 |
| 2008 | 185 |
| 2009 | 245 |
| 2010 | 263 |
| 2011 | 261 |
| 2012 | 344 |
| 2013 | 430 |
| 2014 | 456 |
| 2015 | 453 |
| 2016 | 515 |
| 2017 | 501 |
| 2018 | 508 |
| 2019 | 508 |
| 2020 | 415 |
| 2021 | 426 |
| 2022 | 367 |
| 2023 | 304 |
| 2024 | 290 |