The name Kimberly has its origins in the Old English word "cymbrie," which means "from the meadow of Cymry," referring to the Cymry people of Wales. It is a feminine form of the masculine name Kimberly or Kimberley, which was derived from the Middle English words "kin" (meaning "royal" or "noble") and "burgh" (meaning "fort" or "town").

The earliest recorded use of the name Kimberly can be traced back to the late 19th century, when it began to gain popularity in English-speaking countries. It is believed that the name was first used as a given name for girls in England, where it was likely inspired by the town of Kimberley in South Africa, which was named after Lord Kimberley, a British politician.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Kimberly was Kimberly Conrad (1858-1944), an American writer and educator. Another notable figure was Kimberly Kumai (1897-1988), a Japanese-American artist and activist who was known for her work in promoting cultural understanding between the United States and Japan.

In the 20th century, the name Kimberly gained widespread popularity in the United States and other English-speaking countries. Some famous individuals with the name Kimberly include Kimberly Elise (born 1967), an American actress known for her roles in films such as Beloved and Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and Kimberly Peirce (born 1967), an American film director best known for her work on Boys Don't Cry.

Another notable figure with the name Kimberly is Kimberly Guilfoyle (born 1969), an American lawyer, prosecutor, and television news personality who has worked for various news organizations, including Fox News. Additionally, Kimberly Locke (born 1978) is an American singer and songwriter who gained recognition as a contestant on the second season of American Idol.

The name Kimberly has remained a popular choice for baby girls in many parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its melodic sound, its connection to the natural world (through its meaning of "meadow"), and its association with notable figures throughout history.