Rising since 2006, #1,120 for girls today.
Popularity of Xolani since 2004
Babies named Xolani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 2000s | 11 | 0 |
| 2010s | 144 | 19 |
| 2020s | 884 | 53 |
Meaning & origin
Xolani is a name from the Nguni languages of Southern Africa, carrying the resonant meaning of 'peace' or 'consolation'. It first entered U.S. naming records in 2004 and has been steadily rising, with its peak year recorded in 2025 at rank 1120 among girls. The name is relatively rare, given to approximately 1 in 7,690 girls, and has shown consistent upward trajectory since 2006. Its top states include Colorado, North Carolina, and Virginia, suggesting a presence in diverse communities with appreciation for African heritage. Xolani fits a modern trend of meaningful, culturally rich names that transcend gender boundaries.
Xolani is a given name from the Nguni languages of Southern Africa (Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele, Swati). It is derived from the verb ukuxola 'to be at peace, to forgive' and is specifically the plural imperative form, meaning 'be peaceful' or 'find peace'. The name has been used for both boys and girls, though in the United States it has been recorded primarily for girls since 2004.
Where Xolani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Xola, Lani
Sibling names for Xolani
Names that share Xolani's style, for a brother or sister.
