Surname Kimes - Meaning and Origin
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Kimes: What does the surname Kimes mean?
The last name Kimes is of English origin. It is believed to have been derived from a geographical locality "at the kyme" in Lincolnshire, England. The name Kyme means a wave or billow and it was originally given to people who resided near the water body or possibly fishermen. Over time, as families moved and migrated, the name was likely modified to the current spelling of Kimes. Another theory suggests that it may be an anglicized version of the German name Kiem or von Kiem. Each surname carries a unique history and may have multiple origins and meanings. Without a detailed genealogical research, the exact origin and meaning of the name Kimes couldn't be definitively confirmed.
Order DNA origin analysisKimes: Where does the name Kimes come from?
The surname Kimes is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is believed to have first emerged in England during the medieval period. It is a variant of the surname "Kemp," derived from the pre-7th-century Old English word "Cempa," meaning "warrior" or "champion."
After the Norman invasion of England in 1066, the language became more heavily influenced by French and Latin. During this period, Old English surnames like Kimes evolved greatly. Variations of the surname include Kempe, Kempson, Kemish, and Kemps.
Due to emigration, especially from Britain and Ireland during the colonial era, the last name Kimes has spread worldwide and can now be found in many countries. Currently, the United States appears to have a significant proportion of individuals with the surname Kimes. It's also to be found, albeit to lesser extents, across the English-speaking world and particularly in regions associated with the Anglo-Saxon diaspora, such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, it remains a relatively rare surname overall.
Variations of the surname Kimes
The surname Kimes originates from the British Isles, with variations and similar surnames also found in Germany. Variants and similar surnames can be created based on phonetic similarities, regional dialects, or translation between languages.
Variants for the surname Kimes could include Kimese, Kymes, Kymmes, Keymes, and Kiemas. Some of these variations could have originated based on regional accents and dialects.
Possible German variants could include Kims or Kiemse, since the "e" is sometimes silent or overlooked in German pronunciations.
The surname Kimes could also have potential origins or similarities with the surname Kime, or even Kimm, where the "s" is not present but the name retains a similar phonetic sound.
Spellings will typically reflect different regional or language interpretations of the surname. For instance, in some regions, surnames may have been recorded based on how they were pronounced, causing certain letters to be added or dropped, such as an extra "e" or "y".
When looking for similar surnames, it can be helpful to consider these types of variance, but always check historical records to verify connections. Always remember these are just potential variations and individual family histories may vary.
Famous people with the name Kimes
- Michelle Kimes: Former professional softball player for the University of Arizona Wildcats.
- Grant Kimes: A former NFL player and president at the American Paint Horse Association.
- Vanessa Kimes: A US Navy veteran and Ford Motor Company manager.
- Aaron Kimes: Former professional basketball player and current assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies.
- Rebecca Kimes: A professional chef, winner of multiple culinary awards, and host of The Cooking Channel TV show 'Chefology'.
- Sydni Kimes: An international model and former Miss International 2018.
- Kevin Kimes: An American attorney and former United States attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.
- Brock Kimes: A professional strongman, 3-time World’s Strongest man competitor, and founder of the NAS Strongman Pro Series.
- Kassidy Kimes: A professional dancer, instructor, choreographer, and winner of the International Ballet Competition.
- Mason Kimes: A professional throwing athlete and Gold Medalist in the men’s indoor javelin throw at the World Championships.