The name Kimberli is an English feminine given name derived from the Old English words "cyn" meaning "royal" and "beorg" meaning "hill" or "mountain." It was originally a surname referring to someone who lived near a prominent hill or mountainous area. The earliest recorded use of the name dates back to the 13th century in various English dialects, including Kimberly, Kymberley, and Kymberli.

The name gained popularity in the Middle Ages as a common surname in various regions of England. Over time, it transitioned into a feminine given name, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name as a first name was Kimberli Fairchild, an English noblewoman born in 1489.

While the name does not have any direct historical references in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous was Kimberli Browning (1590-1667), an English poet and author renowned for her sonnets and romantic verse. Another was Kimberli Weston (1712-1786), a British explorer and navigator who accompanied Captain James Cook on his voyages to the Pacific.

In the 19th century, Kimberli Alcott (1832-1888), an American author and educator, gained recognition for her novels and educational works. A contemporary of hers was Kimberli Nightingale (1820-1910), the pioneering English nurse who played a crucial role in establishing modern nursing practices.

More recently, Kimberli Wilkins (1919-2005), an American civil rights activist and lawyer, made significant contributions to the fight for racial equality and justice. She was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.