Kiefer is a unique and distinctive given name of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "kiebitz," which means "lapwing." The lapwing is a type of bird known for its distinct crest feathers that resemble a crown, and it has long been considered a symbol of vigilance and attentiveness in Germanic folklore.
The name Kiefer first appeared in Germany during the Middle Ages and was initially used as a surname. It is believed to have been given to individuals who had a distinctive appearance or were particularly observant, reflecting the qualities associated with the lapwing bird. Over time, Kiefer evolved from a surname into a given name, becoming more popular in the late 20th century.
Today, Kiefer remains a rare and unique name, often chosen by parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful moniker for their child. Its origins and symbolism make it an appealing choice for those who appreciate names with deep historical roots and significant meanings. As a given name, Kiefer is typically used for boys, although its unisex nature means it can also be considered for girls.
In summary, Kiefer is a German given name derived from the Middle High German word "kiebitz," meaning "lapwing." It has evolved from a surname to a given name over time and is associated with vigilance and attentiveness due to its connection to the lapwing bird. Despite being relatively rare, Kiefer remains an appealing choice for parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children.
The name Kiefer has seen a significant decrease in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. Between 1988 and 2021, there were a total of 1939 births registered with the first name Kiefer.
During the late 1980s to early 1990s, Kiefer was quite popular, with over 200 births recorded each year from 1990 to 1992. The peak year for Kiefer births in the United States was 1991, with a total of 204 babies given this name.
However, since the late 1990s, there has been a steady decline in the number of newborns named Kiefer each year. By the early 2000s, the number of annual births with the name Kiefer had dropped below 50, and it continued to decrease throughout the decade.
In recent years, Kiefer has become quite rare as a baby name in the United States. Between 2016 and 2021, there were only 46 recorded births with this name, averaging fewer than ten births per year. The most recent data available shows that in 2021, there were just six babies named Kiefer.
Despite its decline in popularity, Kiefer remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking to give their child a memorable moniker. It is important to note that statistics on baby names can vary depending on the source and the specific time frame being considered.