MallowbyNames

Kayani

kye-AH-nee · Of uncertain meaning; may be a modern coinage inspired by names like Kaya and Kayana, or a variant of the Japanese name Kayano.

2025 rank (girls)
#4,987
Babies named in 2025
26
Peak popularity
2024
2025 frequency
1 in 61,818 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2005

Rising since 2005, #4,987 for girls today.

Popularity of Kayani since 2002

Babies named Kayani per year in U.S. Social Security records.

12243620102020Most births 2024Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
2000s56
2010s92
2020s155

Meaning & origin

Kayani is a modern name that first entered U.S. records in 2002, making it a relatively new addition to baby naming. It has been on a rising trajectory since 2005, with its peak popularity occurring in 2024. In 2025, it ranked 4,987th, given to roughly 1 in every 61,818 girls. The name is most common in Texas. While its exact meaning is unclear, Kayani fits a contemporary pattern of melodic, vowel-ending names. It does not have deep historical roots, but its sound appeals to parents looking for a distinctive yet familiar name. The name's brevity and rhythmic quality make it easy to pair with a variety of middle names and sibling names.

Kayani first appeared in U.S. records in 2002. It may be a modern invention combining the popular element Kay- with the stylish suffix -ani. Alternatively, it could be an Anglicized spelling of the Japanese surname Kayano or a variant of the Hawaiian name Kainani. Its brief history suggests it is a contemporary creation rather than a name with ancient roots.

Where Kayani is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Kaya, Kai

Variants: Kayane, Kayany

Sibling names for Kayani

Names that share Kayani's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Kiana, Maya, Sienna, Zara, Lila

Brothers: Kai, Eli, Miles, Noah, Luca

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kayani, our favorite little girl.

K is for Kayani…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kayani's letter becomes Kayani's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kayani's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kayani mean?
The meaning of Kayani is uncertain. It may be a modern invented name or a variant of names like Kayano or Kayana.
How popular is Kayani?
Kayani is rare. In 2025, it ranked 4,987th in the U.S., with about 1 in every 61,818 baby girls given the name. Its popularity has been rising since 2005.
Is Kayani a boy or girl name?
Kayani is used primarily for girls.