Holding steady, #9,457 for girls today.
Popularity of Meli since 1986
Babies named Meli per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 46 |
| 2010s | 68 |
| 2020s | 67 |
Meaning & origin
Meli is a rare and modern name in the United States, first appearing on record in 1986. As of 2025, it ranks 9457th nationally, with an estimated 1 in 160,727 babies given the name. Its peak year was 2024, and its trajectory has been stable. The name's origins are uncertain; it may function as a diminutive for longer names like Melina or Melissa, or as a standalone coinage influenced by similar-sounding names. It has not been recorded in any top states, reflecting its scattered, infrequent use. For families seeking a short, melodic name that feels contemporary and uncommon, Meli offers an understated option.
Meli is a modern coinage, likely emerging as a diminutive or respelling of names such as Melina, Melissa, or Amelia. It may also be influenced by the Italian word 'miele' (honey) or the Hawaiian name Meli. Its use in the United States dates to the late 20th century, with first recorded usage in 1986. The name has remained uncommon, with a stable trajectory and a peak in popularity in 2024.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Meli
Names that share Meli's style, for a brother or sister.
