What does Li mean and where does it come from?
The name Li (李) is of Chinese origin and is common in China. It can be a surname or given name. The character for Li (李) literally translates to 'plum' and is often associated with beauty. Due to its widespread use, it is also one of the most common surnames in China. One notable figure with this na
Cultural significance
Li has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in China-speaking communities, where it reflects values of plum.
Peak popularity
Reached #4992 in 1983 — currently #661 in the US.
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Related Reading
China-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Li?
Li works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Li Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Li Rose
Floral · soft ending
Li Claire
French influence · crisp
Li Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Li right now?
Holding steady — currently #661 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #661 | 1,539 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #666 | 1,519 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #671 | 1,489 | ▲ up 10423 · +16444% births |
| 2005 | #11094 | 9 | ▼ down 141 · +13% births |
| 2000 | #10953 | 8 | ▼ down 3290 · -27% births |
| 1995 | #7663 | 11 | ▲ up 1812 · +38% births |
| 1990 | #9475 | 8 | ▲ up 1643 · +60% births |
| 1985 | #11118 | 5 | ▼ down 4627 · -50% births |
| 1980 | #6491 | 10 | — |
The story of Li
Li entered American naming records in 1952 and has been in use for over 72 years. With 371 total births recorded, Li remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6491 in 1980 to #661 in 2023. Li is used for both genders: 68% female and 32% male.
Names that peaked alongside Li in 1983:
Li by decade
Li peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 19 | |
| 1980s | 82 | |
| 1990s | 90 | |
| 2000s ★ | 148 | |
| 2010s | 27 | |
💎Li has only 371 total recorded births since 1952 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What names sound and feel like Li?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Li also consider these
Common questions about the name Li
What does the name Li mean?
Li means "plum" — a name rooted in China 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 Li?
Li is currently ranked #661 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 Li?
Li originates from China tradition. China names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Li sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Li flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Li ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Li more of a girl or boy name?
Li is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.