Khali

“the black one” — Associated with the goddess Kali

India origin · Unisex name

♂ 36% boys♀ 64% girls

#2743US 2023

63Births / yr

↓Falling

1.7kAll-time births

📅 Since 198000.01% of births at peak

What does Khali mean and where does it come from?

Khali is a name that has Indian roots, derived from the Hindi language, where it can mean 'the black one,' often associated with the goddess Kali, a strong figure in Hinduism representing empowerment. The name has also been adopted in American culture, particularly within African American communitie

Cultural significance

Khali has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the black one.

Peak popularity

Reached #1773 in 2018 — currently #2743 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Khali?

Khali works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Khali Grace

How popular is Khali right now?

Falling — down 612 spots — currently #2743 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#2743 · Top 2.0%

1980

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#2743	63	▼ down 612 · -30% births
2022	#2131	90	▲ up 204 · +15% births
2021	#2335	78	▼ down 405 · -20% births
2020	#1930	98	▲ up 117 · +2% births
2015	#2047	96	▲ up 4445 · +380% births
2010	#6492	20	▲ up 178 · +11% births
2005	#6670	18	▲ up 2840 · +80% births
2000	#9510	10	▼ down 1009
1995	#8501	10	▲ up 2411 · +43% births
1990	#10912	7	▲ up 824 · +40% births
1980	#11736	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Khali

Best Year2020Rank #1930

Peak Count98

Average Rank#5910

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 202311 years

The story of Khali

Khali is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. With 1,677 total births recorded, Khali remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11736 in 1980 to #2743 in 2023. Khali is used for both genders: 64% female and 36% male.

Names that peaked alongside Khali in 2018:

Emma Olivia Ava Isabella Sophia

Khali by decade

Khali peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1970s	6
1980s	23
1990s	165
2000s	391
2010s ★	969
2020s	123

💎With 1,677 total births, Khali is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Khali?

Common

KhaKhalKhalieKhaly

What names sound and feel like Khali?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Khali also consider these

Kali

India · the black one

Khalli

Arabic · Unique

Kharli

English · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Khali

What does the name Khali mean?

Khali means "the black one" — 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 Khali?

Khali is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Khali?

Khali 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.

Is Khali a common or rare name?

Khali is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

Is Khali more of a girl or boy name?

Khali is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.