Declining since 2019, #3,780 for girls today.
Popularity of Khali since 1978
Babies named Khali per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 6 |
| 1980s | 18 | 5 |
| 1990s | 64 | 101 |
| 2000s | 162 | 229 |
| 2010s | 733 | 240 |
| 2020s | 410 | 119 |
Meaning & origin
Khali is a name of uncertain origin that first appeared in U.S. records in 1980. It may be a modern coinage or a variant of the Arabic Khaleel. The name saw its peak popularity in 2018, but since 2019 its usage has been declining. In 2025, it ranked 3,780th nationally, with about 1 in 41,212 newborns receiving the name. Top states for Khali include Georgia, California, and Texas. The name is used for both genders, and its simple, melodic sound fits well with contemporary naming trends.
Khali may be a modern invented name, or a variant of the Arabic name Khaleel (meaning 'friend'), influenced by the popularity of names like Kali. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1980 and has seen modest use.
Where Khali is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lee
Sibling names for Khali
Names that share Khali's style, for a brother or sister.

