Bali

Meaning & origin

Bali is a rare modern given name in the United States. It first appeared in Social Security records in 1995, making it a relatively recent addition to the name pool. Its popularity peaked in 2021, after which it has experienced a decline since 2022. In 2025, the name ranked 7,491 with a frequency of about 1 birth in every 114,805. The name's origins are uncertain; it may be a respelling of the surname Baily or Bailey, or an adoption of the Indonesian island name. Its appeal likely lies in its simplicity and exotic sound, though it lacks deep historical or etymological roots in English naming traditions. Given its rarity and recent emergence, Bali remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking a unique name.

Bali is a rare given name of modern English coinage, likely derived from the surname Baily (a variant of Bailey, meaning 'bailiff' or 'berry wood') or inspired by the Indonesian island of Bali. The name first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1995 and saw modest use, with a peak in 2021. Its spelling is often influenced by the place name rather than any traditional naming pattern.