Declining since 1996, #10,107 for girls today.
Popularity of Kamalani since 1994
Babies named Kamalani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 79 |
| 2000s | 118 |
| 2010s | 65 |
| 2020s | 41 |
Meaning & origin
Kamalani is a Hawaiian-origin name that has seen modest and sporadic use in the United States since first entering the records in 1994. The name is thought to combine the Hawaiian words for 'child' (kama) and 'heaven' or 'sky' (lani), though its precise etymology remains debated. Since 1996, its frequency has been gradually declining: it reached a peak rank of 10,107 in 2004 and as of 2025 remains at that same rank. The U.S. Social Security data shows that just 1 in every 178,585 newborns receive this name, reflecting its rarity. Despite its low overall numbers, the name enjoys a particular resonance in regions with Hawaiian cultural influence. While unranked in any single state, it carries a distinct island flavor. The name's trajectory marks it as a steady but fading choice, beloved by families seeking a melodic, nature-linked name without high usage.
Kamalani is likely a Hawaiian name, though its exact derivation is unclear. It may be composed of 'kama' (child) and 'lani' (heaven, sky), giving a meaning of 'heavenly child' or 'of the heavens'. The name is relatively modern in recorded U.S. use, first appearing in 1994. It has not gained widespread popularity but has maintained a steady presence, particularly in the early 2000s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kama, Lani, Mali
Sibling names for Kamalani
Names that share Kamalani's style, for a brother or sister.
