Find out how popular the first name Kima has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kima by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kima is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 22 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kima.

The history of the first name Kima

The given name Kima originates from the Swahili language spoken primarily in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The name is believed to have its roots in the ancient Bantu languages, which are a group of languages spoken across a vast region of sub-Saharan Africa.

Kima is derived from the Swahili word "kima," which means "to blossom" or "to bloom." This connection suggests that the name may have been given to children as a symbol of growth, fertility, and new beginnings. The name's origins can be traced back to the early centuries of the second millennium.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kima is found in the 17th century Swahili epic poem "Utendi wa Tambuka," which tells the story of a legendary Swahili ruler. In this epic, Kima is mentioned as the name of a prominent figure, although the exact details of their role are not entirely clear.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kima. One of the most famous was Kima Mbogoni, a Tanzanian politician and diplomat who served as the first Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania from 1962 to 1965. Another prominent individual was Kima Bizunesh, an Ethiopian aristocrat and military commander who played a significant role in the Ethiopian-Adal War in the 16th century.

In the realm of literature, Kima Kashetu was a renowned Swahili poet and scholar who lived in the 19th century and contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Swahili literature and culture. Additionally, Kima Nchanga was a respected Tanzanian artist and sculptor known for his intricate wood carvings depicting traditional African life and culture.

Another notable figure was Kima Gabriyel, an Eritrean guerrilla fighter and military leader who played a crucial role in the Eritrean War of Independence against Ethiopia in the late 20th century. His bravery and leadership during the conflict earned him widespread recognition and respect among his fellow countrymen.

While the name Kima has its origins in East Africa, it has gained popularity and recognition in various parts of the world over the centuries, with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds embracing this name and its symbolic meanings.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Kima was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Kima, please contact us.

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