The name Kimberley is an English given name derived from the Old English words "cy̆ne" meaning "royal" and "ber" meaning "grove" or "meadow." It originally referred to a royal meadow or a royal enclosure for deer. The name can be traced back to the 13th century in England, where it was first used as a place name.

In the late 16th century, the name Kimberley began to appear as a surname in England, often referring to someone who lived near or worked in a royal meadow or enclosure. It wasn't until the 19th century that the name started to be used as a given name for girls.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Kimberley as a given name was in 1857, when Kimberley Browning was born in England. She was the daughter of a wealthy landowner and was named after the family's estate, which was called Kimberley.

Another notable bearer of the name was Kimberley Luker, an English actress born in 1888. She appeared in several plays and films in the early 20th century and was known for her beauty and talent.

In 1910, Kimberley Dougherty was born in Ireland. She later became a prominent author and poet, publishing several collections of poetry and short stories throughout her lifetime.

Kimberley Lund, an American aviator born in 1923, was one of the first women to fly for the United States Air Force during World War II. She served as a pilot and instructor, and her bravery and skill earned her numerous honors and awards.

Kimberley Chambers was a British writer and activist born in 1963. She wrote several novels and non-fiction works that explored themes of social justice, feminism, and human rights. Her books were widely acclaimed and she was a powerful voice for marginalized communities.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who bore the name Kimberley. While the name has its origins in Old English and was initially used as a place name, it has since become a popular given name for girls, particularly in English-speaking countries.