MallowbyNames

Adelei

AD-uh-lay · Of uncertain origin, possibly a modern coinage or variant of Adèle.

Peak popularity
2011
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2012

Declining since 2012.

Popularity of Adelei since 2007

Babies named Adelei per year in U.S. Social Security records.

591420102020Most births 2011Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
2000s22
2010s81
2020s15

Meaning & origin

Adelei is a modern American name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2007, reflecting a trend of invented or creatively respelled names. Its peak year was 2011, after which its usage began a steady decline, falling in popularity since 2012. The name has never ranked in the top 1000, confirming its rarity. While its exact meaning is unclear, it likely draws from the 'noble' root of names like Adeline, combined with the fashionable -ei ending seen in names like Kaylei and Ashlei. Adelei has not been recorded in any top states, indicating scattered usage across the country. For parents seeking a distinctive, contemporary-sounding name, Adelei offers a soft, melodic option that feels both fresh and familiar.

Adelei first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2007. It may be a feminine elaboration of the German name Adel (meaning 'noble') combined with the popular -ei suffix, or a variant of Adeline/Adelaide. Its usage peaked in 2011 and has since declined, suggesting it is a modern invention rather than a traditional name with deep historical roots.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Addie, Dela, Lei

Variants: Adelay, Adelie, Adeleigh

Sibling names for Adelei

Names that share Adelei's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

A is for Adelei, our favorite little girl.

A is for Adelei…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Adelei's letter becomes Adelei's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Adelei's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Adelei mean?
The meaning of Adelei is uncertain. It is likely a modern coinage, possibly inspired by names like Adeline or Adelaide, which derive from the Germanic word 'adal' meaning 'noble'.
How popular is Adelei?
Adelei first appeared in U.S. records in 2007, peaked in popularity in 2011, and has been falling in use since 2012. It is still a rare name, with no rank in the top 1000.
Is Adelei a girl's name?
Yes, Adelei is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.