Declining since 2010.
Popularity of Kailei since 1988
Babies named Kailei per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2004, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kailei's real moment was 2010.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 14 |
| 1990s | 83 |
| 2000s | 282 |
| 2010s | 184 |
| 2020s | 54 |
Meaning & origin
Kailei is a modern American invention that emerged in 1988 and peaked in popularity in 2010, reflecting the late-2000s trend for names ending in 'lei' or 'lee.' While it has never entered the national top 1000, its relative use has declined from that peak, and it remains an uncommon choice. The name likely combines the phonetic appeal of names like Kaylee or Kailani, with the Hawaiian-sounding suffix Lei giving it a breezy, melodic feel. Its recorded trajectory shows a steady fall in usage since 2010, aligning with broader shifts away from similar invented names. Despite its obscurity, Kailei offers a distinct alternative for parents seeking a contemporary, feminine name with a soft, lyrical sound.
Kailei first appeared in U.S. records in 1988, part of a trend of names ending in -lei or -ley for girls. It may blend the popular syllable Kay (often from Katherine) with Lei (Hawaiian for 'child' or 'garland of flowers'), or be a respelling of Kaylee. Its usage peaked in 2010.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kai, Lei
Sibling names for Kailei
Names that share Kailei's style, for a brother or sister.
