What does Anjali mean and where does it come from?
Anjali is a traditional name of Indian origin derived from the Sanskrit word 'anjali,' meaning 'divine offering' or 'salutation.' It is often used in the context of prayers and worship. The name symbolizes reverence and respect. It is widely used across India and among the Indian diaspora. Anjali is
Cultural significance
Anjali has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of divine offering.
Peak popularity
Reached #934 in 2000 — currently #2419 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Anjali?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Anjali?
Anjali works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Anjali Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Anjali Rose
Floral · soft ending
Anjali Mae
Sweet · timeless
Anjali Claire
French influence · crisp
Anjali Jane
Literary · strong
Anjali Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Anjali right now?
Falling — down 260 spots — currently #2419 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2419 | 74 | ▼ down 260 · -16% births |
| 2022 | #2159 | 88 | ▲ up 129 · +10% births |
| 2021 | #2288 | 80 | ▼ down 148 · -5% births |
| 2020 | #2140 | 84 | ▼ down 625 · -44% births |
| 2015 | #1515 | 149 | ▼ down 334 · -28% births |
| 2010 | #1181 | 206 | ▼ down 215 · -19% births |
| 2005 | #966 | 255 | ▼ down 32 · +11% births |
| 2000 | #934 | 230 | ▲ up 979 · +215% births |
| 1995 | #1913 | 73 | ▲ up 1025 · +87% births |
| 1990 | #2938 | 39 | ▼ down 666 · -13% births |
| 1985 | #2272 | 45 | ▲ up 104 · +10% births |
| 1980 | #2376 | 41 | ▲ up 1107 · +105% births |
| 1975 | #3483 | 20 | ▼ down 710 · -23% births |
| 1970 | #2773 | 26 | ▲ up 4575 · +420% births |
| 1965 | #7348 | 5 | — |
The story of Anjali
Anjali is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1964. With 5,439 total births recorded, Anjali remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7348 in 1965 to #2419 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Anjali in 2000:
Anjali by decade
Anjali peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 38 | |
| 1970s | 287 | |
| 1980s | 425 | |
| 1990s | 779 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,351 | |
| 2010s | 1,475 | |
| 2020s | 84 | |
💎With 5,439 total births, Anjali is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Anjali?
What names sound and feel like Anjali?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Anjali also consider these
How is Anjali written in other languages?
Nepali), அஞ்சலி
Tamil), అంజలి (Telugu), അഞ്ജലി (Malayalam
Common questions about the name Anjali
What does the name Anjali mean?
Anjali means "Divine offering" — a name rooted in India tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Anjali?
Anjali is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Anjali?
Anjali originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Anjali?
Anjali is a three-syllable name pronounced AA1 N JH AH0 L IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Anjali?
Anjali pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar India heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.