Kim Unisex
Origin(s)
English; Korean
Meaning
English: 'brave' or 'noble'; Korean: 'gold' or 'metal'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kim has English roots, often used as a diminutive of names like Kimball or Kimberly. In Korean culture, Kim is a very common surname and is associated with various meanings, including 'gold' or 'metal.' The name has gained popularity in various cultures, particularly due to its use as both a first name and surname. In the West, it has been popularized through various media and notable figures.
Trend Summary
The name Kim has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., peaking in the mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Tim, Jim, Sam, Tom, Max, Finn, Zim, Graham
Variants
- Kym
International Variants
- Kim (Korean)
- Kimi (Japanese)
- Kimo (Hawaiian)
Famous people named Kim
Kim Jong-un is the Supreme Leader of North Korea, known for his political leadership and controversial policies.
Kim Kardashian is an American media personality and businesswoman, recognized for her influence in popular culture and fashion.
Kim Basinger is an American actress and producer, acclaimed for her roles in films such as 'L.A. Confidential.'.
Kim Il-sung was the founding leader of North Korea, serving from its establishment in 1948 until his death in 1994.
Fictional characters named Kim
Kim Possible is the main character in the animated series 'Kim Possible,' known for being a teenage crime-fighter.
Kim Wexler is a prominent character in the television series 'Better Call Saul,' serving as a lawyer and love interest of the main character.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kim was first seen in the United States in 1912. Kim has ranked as high as #218 nationally which occurred in 1955 and has been most popular in California, Michigan, Ohio, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Kim has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kim (2003)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1912 | 5 |
| 1913 | 7 |
| 1915 | 5 |
| 1918 | 5 |
| 1921 | 7 |
| 1922 | 10 |
| 1923 | 7 |
| 1924 | 8 |
| 1926 | 10 |
| 1927 | 9 |
| 1928 | 7 |
| 1929 | 8 |
| 1930 | 7 |
| 1931 | 11 |
| 1932 | 21 |
| 1933 | 23 |
| 1934 | 24 |
| 1935 | 24 |
| 1936 | 50 |
| 1937 | 58 |
| 1938 | 40 |
| 1939 | 52 |
| 1940 | 66 |
| 1941 | 54 |
| 1942 | 88 |
| 1943 | 104 |
| 1944 | 135 |
| 1945 | 188 |
| 1946 | 407 |
| 1947 | 534 |
| 1948 | 510 |
| 1949 | 636 |
| 1950 | 795 |
| 1951 | 1,474 |
| 1952 | 2,356 |
| 1953 | 2,565 |
| 1954 | 3,167 |
| 1955 | 3,490 |
| 1956 | 2,960 |
| 1957 | 1,975 |
| 1958 | 1,321 |
| 1959 | 1,105 |
| 1960 | 1,156 |
| 1961 | 1,102 |
| 1962 | 916 |
| 1963 | 848 |
| 1964 | 779 |
| 1965 | 612 |
| 1966 | 548 |
| 1967 | 457 |
| 1968 | 408 |
| 1969 | 361 |
| 1970 | 318 |
| 1971 | 267 |
| 1972 | 219 |
| 1973 | 183 |
| 1974 | 161 |
| 1975 | 164 |
| 1976 | 137 |
| 1977 | 131 |
| 1978 | 123 |
| 1979 | 115 |
| 1980 | 113 |
| 1981 | 108 |
| 1982 | 96 |
| 1983 | 91 |
| 1984 | 93 |
| 1985 | 91 |
| 1986 | 81 |
| 1987 | 76 |
| 1988 | 90 |
| 1989 | 72 |
| 1990 | 66 |
| 1991 | 60 |
| 1992 | 45 |
| 1993 | 39 |
| 1994 | 46 |
| 1995 | 31 |
| 1996 | 47 |
| 1997 | 20 |
| 1998 | 24 |
| 1999 | 29 |
| 2000 | 18 |
| 2001 | 26 |
| 2002 | 14 |
| 2003 | 17 |
| 2004 | 18 |
| 2005 | 13 |
| 2006 | 10 |
| 2007 | 10 |
| 2008 | 7 |
| 2009 | 17 |
| 2010 | 9 |
| 2011 | 7 |
| 2012 | 9 |
| 2013 | 8 |
| 2014 | 19 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2016 | 7 |
| 2017 | 8 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 10 |
| 2020 | 10 |
| 2021 | 8 |
| 2022 | 10 |
| 2023 | 9 |
| 2024 | 13 |