Rising since 2006, #1,570 for girls today.
Popularity of Nailani since 2006
Babies named Nailani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 22 |
| 2010s | 130 |
| 2020s | 348 |
Meaning & origin
Nailani entered the U.S. Social Security Administration data in 2006, a year that marked the beginning of its steady ascent. As of its latest recorded year (2023), it ranked 1,570th with an incidence of 1 in every 11,995 newborn girls. The name reached its peak popularity in the same year, 2023, and it has shown consistent growth, with a trajectory described as rising since 2006. Geographically, Nailani has been most common in Tennessee, Illinois, and North Carolina, reflecting a spread beyond its Hawaiian roots. The name joins a broader trend of Hawaiian names gaining mainland favor, offering a melodic and culturally rich choice that celebrates natural and celestial imagery.
Nailani is composed of the Hawaiian elements 'nai' (often interpreted as 'chief' or 'leader') and 'lani' (meaning 'heaven' or 'sky'). The name is a traditional Hawaiian name that reflects the cultural reverence for the natural world and social hierarchy. It has been used in Hawaii for generations and gained broader recognition as part of a wave of Hawaiian names entering the U.S. mainland in the early 21st century.
Where Nailani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nai, Lani
Sibling names for Nailani
Names that share Nailani's style, for a brother or sister.
