What does Maili mean and where does it come from?
Maili is a name of Hawaiian origin, relating to the ocean and embodying a connection to nature. It is often depicted as symbolizing movement and fluidity like the sea. The name is primarily used in Hawaiian culture but has made its way into broader English-speaking areas through its appealing sound
Cultural significance
Maili has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hawaiian-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 'of the sea' or 'the ocean'.
Peak popularity
Reached #3948 in 2004 — currently #16369 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hawaiian-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Maili?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Maili?
Maili works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maili Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Maili Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Maili Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Maili Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Maili Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Maili Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Maili right now?
Rising fast — up 318 spots — currently #16369 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #16369 | 5 | ▲ up 318 |
| 2023 | #16687 | 5 | ▼ down 5991 · -50% births |
| 2010 | #10696 | 10 | ▼ down 4031 · -44% births |
| 2005 | #6665 | 18 | ▼ down 7 · +13% births |
| 2000 | #6658 | 16 | ▲ up 5802 · +167% births |
| 1995 | #12460 | 6 | ▼ down 4319 · -25% births |
| 1985 | #8141 | 8 | — |
The story of Maili
Maili is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. With 356 total births recorded, Maili remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #8141 in 1985, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #16687 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Maili in 2004:
Maili by decade
Maili peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 10 | |
| 1980s | 26 | |
| 1990s | 62 | |
| 2000s ★ | 184 | |
| 2010s | 74 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎Maili has only 356 total recorded births since 1977 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Maili?
What names sound and feel like Maili?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maili also consider these
Common questions about the name Maili
What does the name Maili mean?
Maili means "'of the sea' or 'the ocean'" — a name rooted in Hawaiian 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 Maili?
Maili 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 Maili?
Maili originates from Hawaiian tradition. Hawaiian names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Maili a common or rare name?
Maili is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Maili?
Maili naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.