Rising since 1996, #1,065 for girls today.
Popularity of Jalani since 1973
Babies named Jalani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 | 5 |
| 1990s | 22 | 134 |
| 2000s | 127 | 206 |
| 2010s | 451 | 193 |
| 2020s | 1,076 | 127 |
Meaning & origin
Jalani is a modern American name first recorded in 1992. Its origins are uncertain, but it may be a creative spelling variant of the Arabic name Jalil, meaning 'great' or 'mighty', or a coinage influenced by other contemporary names. The name has steadily risen in popularity since 1996, reaching its peak rank of 1,065 in 2025, with an estimated 1 in 7,049 babies receiving the name that year. Geographically, Jalani has strong roots in the southern United States, particularly in Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina. Its unisex appeal and distinctive sound have contributed to its ongoing growth.
Jalani is a modern given name that emerged in the United States in the early 1990s. Its precise origin is unclear, but it may be a creative respelling or variant of the Arabic name Jalil, meaning 'great' or 'mighty', or a coinage influenced by the popular suffix -ani found in other modern names. It has seen steady usage, particularly in the southern United States.
Where Jalani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jala, Lani, J
Sibling names for Jalani
Names that share Jalani's style, for a brother or sister.
