Holding steady.
Popularity of Lai since 1953
Babies named Lai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s | 5 | 0 |
| 1960s | 5 | 0 |
| 1970s | 26 | 0 |
| 1980s | 94 | 17 |
| 1990s | 84 | 8 |
| 2000s | 11 | 0 |
| 2010s | 6 | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Lai is an uncommon name in the United States, first recorded in 1953. Its usage has remained stable over time, with a peak year in 1984 when it was given to a handful of babies. As of 2025, the name continues to be used rarely and is not among the top 1000 names. The lack of a clear single origin gives Lai a multicultural appeal, drawing from French, Chinese, and Hawaiian roots. Because it is so rare, Lai stands out as a distinctive choice for parents seeking a short, simple name with global resonance.
The name Lai has multiple possible origins. In French, it may be derived from the Old French word 'lai' meaning 'song' or 'lay,' a type of medieval poem. In Chinese, it can be a surname (赖) meaning 'rely' or a given name meaning 'rely' or 'depend on.' In Hawaiian, Lai means 'calm' or 'serene.' Its use as a given name in the United States is rare and appears to have been adopted from various cultural sources. The name has seen sporadic usage since the mid-20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Lai
Names that share Lai's style, for a brother or sister.
