Xolani
Xolani is a girl name of Zulu origin meaning “Peace, forgive”, pronounced ko-LAH-nee. It ranked #1124 in the United States in 2025, given to 209 babies, and peaked at #1124 in 2025. Common nicknames: Xoli, Lani.
How popular is Xolani 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 Xolani mean, and where does it come from?
Xolani comes from the Zulu and Xhosa verb xolela, to forgive or make peace — the name is an instruction, "be at peace" or "forgive one another," and it is given to girls and boys alike in South Africa. The initial X is a lateral click in Xhosa, which English speakers generally replace with a K or a Z sound. American records hold the name from 2004, and it reached its highest position in 2025, rising steadily while remaining outside the top thousand.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Xolani
- Xolani Gwala — South African broadcaster and radio presenter
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Xolani mean?
Xolani is a girl name of Zulu origin meaning "Peace, forgive." Xolani comes from the Zulu and Xhosa verb xolela, to forgive or make peace — the name is an instruction, "be at peace" or "forgive one another," and it is given to girls and boys alike in South Africa. The initial X is a lateral click in Xhosa, which English speakers generally replace with a K or a Z sound.
How do you pronounce Xolani?
Xolani is pronounced ko-LAH-nee. Common variations include Xolane, Xolile, Kholani.
Is Xolani a girl name?
Yes, Xolani is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Xoli, Lani.