Holding steady.
Popularity of Kelii since 1973
Babies named Kelii per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1990, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kelii's real moment was 1979.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 44 |
| 1980s | 52 |
| 1990s | 71 |
| 2000s | 58 |
| 2010s | 25 |
| 2020s | 11 |
Meaning & origin
Kelii is a rare Hawaiian name that first appeared in U.S. Social Security records in 1973. Its peak year came in 1979, but it has never been a common choice, with fewer than five annual births in most years. The trajectory of the name has been consistently stable, maintaining a very low incidence over the decades. While it is likely a variant of Keʻāliʻi, a traditional Hawaiian name meaning 'the chief' or 'the leader', its exact origin remains uncertain due to limited historical documentation. Kelii has not been recorded among the top baby names in any state, reflecting its niche appeal primarily within communities with Hawaiian heritage. For parents seeking a distinctive name with cultural roots in Hawaii, Kelii offers an uncommon option that honors Pacific Islander traditions.
Kelii is likely a variant or contraction of the Hawaiian name Keʻāliʻi, which is composed of ke (the) and ʻāliʻi (chief, leader). The name has been used in Hawaii as a given name, particularly during the late 20th century. Its exact etymology is debated, as Hawaiian oral tradition and written records from missionary influence may have shaped modern usage.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Keli, Lee
Variants: Keʻāliʻi, Kealii, Kealiʻi
Sibling names for Kelii
Names that share Kelii's style, for a brother or sister.
