What does Kaili mean and where does it come from?
Kaili has dual origins. In Hawaiian, it is associated with the sea and ocean, representing a connection to nature and the environment. It can also be considered a variant of Kylie, which has Australian origins meaning 'boomerang'. The name has gained popularity in the United States, especially in ar
Cultural significance
Kaili has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sea, ocean.
Peak popularity
Reached #1277 in 2003 — currently #1209 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kaili?
Kaili works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kaili Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kaili Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kaili Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kaili Claire
French influence · crisp
Kaili Jane
Literary · strong
Kaili Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kaili right now?
Holding steady — currently #1209 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1209 | 991 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1214 | 971 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1219 | 941 | ▲ up 3338 · +3145% births |
| 2020 | #4557 | 29 | ▼ down 1232 · -41% births |
| 2015 | #3325 | 49 | ▼ down 1257 · -49% births |
| 2010 | #2068 | 96 | ▼ down 441 · -23% births |
| 2005 | #1627 | 124 | ▲ up 2 · +14% births |
| 2000 | #1629 | 109 | ▲ up 583 · +79% births |
| 1995 | #2212 | 61 | ▲ up 861 · +65% births |
| 1990 | #3073 | 37 | ▲ up 1363 · +106% births |
| 1985 | #4436 | 18 | ▲ up 796 · +29% births |
| 1980 | #5232 | 14 | — |
The story of Kaili
Kaili is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. With 2,785 total births recorded, Kaili remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5232 in 1980 to #1209 in 2023. Kaili is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kaili in 2003:
Kaili by decade
Kaili peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 33 | |
| 1980s | 242 | |
| 1990s | 650 | |
| 2000s ★ | 1,241 | |
| 2010s | 590 | |
| 2020s | 29 | |
💎With 2,785 total births, Kaili is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kaili?
What names sound and feel like Kaili?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kaili also consider these
Common questions about the name Kaili
What does the name Kaili mean?
Kaili means "sea, ocean" — a name rooted in American 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 Kaili?
Kaili 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 Kaili?
Kaili originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kaili a common or rare name?
Kaili is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Kaili more of a girl or boy name?
Kaili is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.