Kimberly

Girl Name
Pronunciation:/ˈkɪm.bər.li/

Kimberly: a female name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow)". It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word "cyne- / cynn burg > Cyneburg lēah > KIMBERLEY".

Kimberly is a feminine name that means "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow)". Its Old English (Anglo-saxon) origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Kimberly

Quick facts about Kimberly
OriginOld English (Anglo-saxon)
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

cyne- / cynn burg > Cyneburg lēah > KIMBERLEY

How to Pronounce Kimberly

Kimberly is pronounced /ˈkɪm.bər.li/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Kim-ber-ly
  2. Say it like: "KIM-BER-LY"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Kimberly enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, norwegian, swedish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishnorwegianswedishdanishgerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Kimberly
What does the name Kimberly mean?
Kimberly means "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century.". The name comes from cyne- / cynn burg > Cyneburg lēah > KIMBERLEY. This old english (anglo-saxon) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kimberly for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Kimberly offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Kimberly?
Kimberly is a old english (anglo-saxon) name. The name traces back to cyne- / cynn burg > Cyneburg lēah > KIMBERLEY. From its old english (anglo-saxon) roots, Kimberly spread to become common in english, norwegian, swedish, danish and other cultures. The old english (anglo-saxon) meaning "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kimberly a boy or girl name?
Kimberly is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Kimberly has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kimberly?
Kimberly is pronounced "/ˈkɪm.bər.li/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kimberly is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, norwegian, swedish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with old english (anglo-saxon) names, listening to a native speaker say Kimberly can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Kimberly?
Kimberly is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Kimberly gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Kimberly's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Kimberly holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kimberly commonly used?
Kimberly spans multiple cultures, including english, norwegian, swedish, and 2 other traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Kimberly found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Kimberly, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name is of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin, composed of two elements: from the personal name “Cyneburg and Cyneburga” plus “lēah” (a woodland, a clearing “especially one used for farming,” a meadow). The name means “a woodland clearing of cyneburg.” In turn, Cyneburg and Cyneburga are composed of two elements: “cyne- / cynn” (Royal King) plus “burg” (stronghold, fortification, castle), meaning “the royal castle, the castle of the King.” This given name derives from the like-named place, Kimberley, in Northern Cape, South Africa. This South African place name was named after a Lord Kimberley in the 19th century." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kimberly into their naming traditions. A child named Kimberly will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Kimberly is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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