Holding steady, #10,695 for boys today.
Popularity of Cahlil since 1995
Babies named Cahlil per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2015, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Cahlil's real moment was 2024.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 23 |
| 2000s | 56 |
| 2010s | 99 |
| 2020s | 67 |
Meaning & origin
Cahlil is a modern English respelling of the classic Arabic name Khalil, meaning 'friend' or 'beloved.' This variant first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1995, making it a relatively recent adaptation. Despite its low overall usage, it has shown steady appeal, reaching its peak rank in 2024 at position 10,695. With a 1-in-284,679 occurrence rate in 2025, Cahlil remains a distinctive choice. The name has not seen a significant revival or decline, maintaining a stable trajectory through the 2020s. While it does not appear among any state's top names, its similarity to the well-established Khalil gives it a familiar yet unique feel. Families drawn to Arabic heritage or seeking a creative spin on a traditional name may find Cahlil appealing.
Cahlil appears to be a modern English respelling of the Arabic name Khalil, meaning 'friend' or 'beloved.' The name Khalil is borne in the Quran and has long been associated with the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), known as Khalil Allah, 'Friend of God.' This spelling variant emerged in the late 20th century, likely influenced by phonetic anglicization and a broader trend of creative respellings.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cah, Lil
Sibling names for Cahlil
Names that share Cahlil's style, for a brother or sister.
