The name Ximena originated in Spain and has its roots in the medieval Spanish language. It is derived from the Germanic nameXimena, which is a combination of the elements "gu" meaning "battle" and "man" meaning "man." The name was brought to Spain by the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe that settled in the Iberian Peninsula during the 5th and 6th centuries.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Ximena can be found in the epic poem "El Cantar de Mio Cid," which dates back to the 12th century. In the poem, Ximena is the name of the wife of the legendary Spanish hero El Cid Campeador. The name also appears in other medieval Spanish literary works, such as the "Poema de Fernán González" and the "Crónica del Rey Don Pedro."

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Ximena. Ximena Batres (1919-1994) was a Guatemalan writer and activist known for her work in promoting indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Ximena Navarrete (born 1988) is a Mexican actress and model who won the Miss Universe pageant in 2010. Ximena Arenas (born 1982) is a Mexican singer and songwriter who has released several successful albums.

In the realm of literature, Ximena Sánchez (1944-2023) was a renowned Colombian poet and essayist whose works explored themes of identity, feminism, and social justice. Ximena Grollmus (born 1963) is an Argentine writer and journalist who has published several novels and short story collections.

While the name Ximena has its roots in medieval Spain, it has since gained popularity in various Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Latin America. The name continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking a name with a rich cultural heritage and historical significance.