What does Hailee mean and where does it come from?
Hailee is a modern variant of the name Haley, which originates from Old English and refers to a 'hay clearing' or 'from the hay meadow.' It gained popularity in the late 20th century, especially among English-speaking families. The name is often associated with freshness and nature. Hailee has been
Cultural significance
Hailee has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hay clearing.
Peak popularity
Reached #361 in 2003 — currently #1151 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hailee?
Hailee works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hailee Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hailee Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hailee Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hailee Claire
French influence · crisp
Hailee Jane
Literary · strong
Hailee Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hailee right now?
Holding steady — currently #1151 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1151 | 1,049 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1156 | 1,029 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1161 | 999 | ▼ down 60 · +356% births |
| 2020 | #1101 | 219 | ▼ down 273 · -35% births |
| 2015 | #828 | 338 | ▼ down 307 · -41% births |
| 2010 | #521 | 570 | ▼ down 117 · -27% births |
| 2005 | #404 | 779 | ▼ down 19 · +4% births |
| 2000 | #385 | 751 | ▲ up 197 · +90% births |
| 1995 | #582 | 396 | ▲ up 850 · +257% births |
| 1990 | #1432 | 111 | ▲ up 1369 · +226% births |
| 1985 | #2801 | 34 | ▲ up 3103 · +183% births |
| 1980 | #5904 | 12 | — |
The story of Hailee
Hailee is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1979. A total of 15,517 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5904 in 1980 to #1151 in 2023. Hailee is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Hailee in 2003:
Hailee by decade
Hailee peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 8 | |
| 1980s | 375 | |
| 1990s | 3,708 | |
| 2000s ★ | 7,431 | |
| 2010s | 3,776 | |
| 2020s | 219 | |
What are good nicknames for Hailee?
Common
HaiHailHailieHailyIlee
What names sound and feel like Hailee?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hailee also consider these
How is Hailee written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Hailee
What does the name Hailee mean?
Hailee means "hay clearing" — a name rooted in English 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 Hailee?
Hailee is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hailee?
Hailee originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Hailee a common or rare name?
Hailee is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Hailee more of a girl or boy name?
Hailee is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.