Rising since 1999, #2,173 for girls today.
Popularity of Mailani since 1996
Babies named Mailani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 12 |
| 2000s | 73 |
| 2010s | 241 |
| 2020s | 385 |
Meaning & origin
Mailani is a relatively modern name in the United States, first appearing in records in 1996. As of 2025, it ranks 2,173 with a frequency of about 1 in every 18,909 baby girls. The name has shown a consistent upward trend, rising in usage since 1999 and reaching its peak popularity in 2023. Its highest concentration of use is in Washington, Georgia, and Ohio. While often associated with Hawaiian origins, the name's exact etymology remains debated. It may be a traditional Hawaiian compound meaning 'calm water' or a contemporary invention inspired by names like Leilani and Malani. Regardless, its melodic sound and exotic flair have made it a growing choice among parents seeking a distinctive yet harmonious name.
Mailani likely has Hawaiian roots, though its exact derivation is uncertain. It may combine 'mai' (meaning 'water') and 'lani' (meaning 'sky' or 'heaven'), suggesting a poetic meaning like 'calm water' or 'heavenly water'. Alternatively, it could be a modern English creation inspired by similar-sounding names like Malani or Leilani, fitting a trend of melodic, vowel-rich names. The name first appeared in U.S. records in the late 1990s, reflecting its contemporary adoption.
Where Mailani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mai, Lani, Mila
Variants: Malani, Mailanie
Sibling names for Mailani
Names that share Mailani's style, for a brother or sister.
