Declining since 1999, #2,145 for boys today.
Popularity of Jelani since 1973
Babies named Jelani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 6 | 387 |
| 1980s | 29 | 548 |
| 1990s | 142 | 1,101 |
| 2000s | 148 | 1,161 |
| 2010s | 198 | 909 |
| 2020s | 419 | 612 |
Meaning & origin
Jelani is a distinctive name of African origin first recorded in the United States in 1973. It reached its peak popularity in 1998, when it ranked highest in usage. Since 1999, its frequency has been gradually falling, though it maintains a steady presence. As of 2025, it stands at rank 2,145, with about 1 in 25,494 newborns given the name. The name is most common in Georgia, Florida, and New York, suggesting a concentration in areas with larger African American communities. Despite its decline, Jelani remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with a powerful meaning and a modern feel.
Jelani is an African name commonly used in Swahili-speaking regions, derived from the word "jilani" meaning "mighty" or "powerful." It gained some usage in the United States beginning in the 1970s, particularly within African American communities. The name remains relatively rare but has a strong, assertive sound.
Where Jelani is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Jelani” around the world
Where Jelani lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
80
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jay, Jel
Variants: Jilani
Sibling names for Jelani
Names that share Jelani's style, for a brother or sister.
