Kalani
Kalani is a girl name of Hawaiian origin meaning “The heavens; royal one”, pronounced kah-LAH-nee. It ranked #387 in the United States in 2025, given to 800 babies, and peaked at #339 in 2021. Common nicknames: Kali, Lani.
How popular is Kalani in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Kalani mean, and where does it come from?
Kalani derives from the Hawaiian words "ka," meaning "the," and "lani," meaning "sky" or "heaven," and was traditionally used to denote chiefly or royal rank, since Hawaiian chiefs were seen as descended from the heavens. Unisex in Hawaiian usage, it has become increasingly popular for girls on the mainland United States since the 2000s. Its serene meaning and soft, flowing sound have made it a favorite among parents drawn to Polynesian names.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Kalani
- Kalani Sitake — American college football head coach at BYU
- Kalani Brown — American WNBA player
- Kalani Hilliker — American dancer and reality television personality (Dance Moms)
Similar Names to Kalani
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Sibling Name Ideas for Kalani
Looking for names that pair well with Kalani? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Kalani mean?
Kalani is a girl name of Hawaiian origin meaning "The heavens; royal one." Kalani derives from the Hawaiian words "ka," meaning "the," and "lani," meaning "sky" or "heaven," and was traditionally used to denote chiefly or royal rank, since Hawaiian chiefs were seen as descended from the heavens. Unisex in Hawaiian usage, it has become increasingly popular for girls on the mainland United States since the 2000s.
How do you pronounce Kalani?
Kalani is pronounced kah-LAH-nee. Common variations include Khalani, Kalanie, Kalanni.
Is Kalani a girl name?
Yes, Kalani is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Kali, Lani.