Originating from the Germanic name Kolbein, Kolbe is a masculine name with strong associations. It means "coal bright" or "dark as coal," which conveys a sense of strength and resilience. The name has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the United States. In terms of pronunciation, both American English and British English pronunciations are the same - pronounced as KOHL-bee (/koʊlˈbi/). Variations of the name include Colby. When looking at data for newborns in the United States, it is evident that the popularity of Kolbe has been on the rise since the 1990s. It consistently ranks within the top 3000 names given to baby boys, reaching its peak in 2001 with 102 occurrences and ranking 1287th. With its rich history and modern appeal, Kolbe is an excellent choice for parents seeking a unique yet meaningful name for their son.