Declining since 2006, #3,577 for girls today.
Popularity of Citlaly since 1988
Babies named Citlaly per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 7 |
| 1990s | 235 |
| 2000s | 1,741 |
| 2010s | 682 |
| 2020s | 189 |
Meaning & origin
Citlaly is a modern spelling of the Nahuatl name Citlali, meaning star. First recorded in the U.S. in 1988, it saw a peak in popularity in 2005, when it ranked highest. Since 2006, its usage has been generally falling. In 2025, it ranked 3,577th, with about 1 in 38,268 baby girls receiving the name. It has been most common in Texas and California, reflecting its roots in Mexican-American communities. The name's celestial meaning and melodic sound have made it a distinctive choice for families seeking a name with indigenous heritage.
Citlaly is a modern spelling variant of Citlali, which comes from the Nahuatl word citlalli (star). The name was traditionally given among Nahuatl-speaking peoples in central Mexico. Its use in the United States has grown steadily since the late 1980s, particularly in states with large Mexican-American populations.
Where Citlaly is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cici, Lali, Laly
Sibling names for Citlaly
Names that share Citlaly's style, for a brother or sister.

