Holding steady, #5,045 for boys today.
Popularity of Kalai since 1991
Babies named Kalai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 11 | 6 |
| 2000s | 18 | 100 |
| 2010s | 16 | 84 |
| 2020s | 27 | 56 |
Meaning & origin
Kalai entered the U.S. baby name records in 1998 and has seen modest but persistent use. As of 2025, it ranked 5,045th nationally, with a 1-in-89,899 occurrence rate. The name reached its peak popularity in 2025, suggesting growing interest. Its trajectory remains stable, neither a sudden spike nor a sharp decline. Kalai's appeal lies in its cultural roots and melodic sound, attracting families seeking a name with South Indian heritage. It is not concentrated in any particular state, indicating a wide but sparse distribution across the country.
Kalai likely derives from the Tamil word கலை (kalai), meaning 'art', 'skill', or 'learning'. It is a common given name among Tamil-speaking communities in southern India and the diaspora. The name has been in use since the late 20th century, particularly from the 1990s onward, reflecting a broader interest in meaningful, culturally-rooted names.
Sibling names for Kalai
Names that share Kalai's style, for a brother or sister.
