Kalani Name Meaning

Helen Doanna

By Helen Doanna

Lastest Updated July 9, 2024
Home » Baby Names » Kalani Name Meaning

Fact: In Hawaiian culture, names are highly significant, and Kalani is often given to children to honor their connection to the divine and the natural world.

Continue Reading…
A Deep Dive

Kalani Overview

Meaning

The heavens, sky

Gender

Girl, Gender-neutral

Origin

Hawaiian

Etymology

Derived from Hawaiian, meaning “the heavens”​

Pronunciation

/kəˈlɑːni/

Popularity

Kalani is cherished in the United States and has seen a rise in use globally. In 2023, it ranked 378th for girls in the USA​

Syllable

3 syllables

Length

6 letters

Numerology

3 (Expressive, Social, Artistic)

Name Styles

Nature-inspired, Exotic, Unique

Associated Traits

Wholesome, refined, graceful, serene

Spiritual, Religious, or Cultural Significance

Kalani often symbolizes celestial or royal qualities, reflecting its meaning “the heavens” and its use as a name for chieftains in Hawaiian culture​
A Deep Dive

Kalani Variations in Different Cultures

Popular Variations

Kailani, Keilani, Kehlani, Kalena, Kelani, Kaelani, Kailene

Common Nicknames

Lani, Kali, Kay, Ani, Kiki

Diminutives

Kal, Lan, Kally, Lala, Nani

Famous People

  • Kalani Hilliker
    (American Dancer)
  • Kalani Peʻa
    (Hawaiian Singer)
  • Kalani Brown
    (American Basketball Player)
  • Kalani Queypo
    (American Actor)
  • Kalani Chapman
    (Hawaiian Surfer)

Pop Culture Icons and Works

  • Kalani Hilliker
    ("Dance Moms," TV Series)
  • "Kalani Peʻa"
    (Album)
  • "Kalani's Journey"
    (Novel)
  • Kalani Faagata
    ("90 Day Fiancé," TV Series)
  • "Kalani of the Islands"
    (Film)

Places

  • Kalani High School
    (Hawaii, USA)

What Is the Meaning of Kalani?

Kalani is a Hawaiian name that means “the heavens” or “the sky,” conjuring images of peaceful, open spaces. Just like a clear blue sky, people named Kalani often have a calm and serene personality, bringing a sense of tranquility to those around them.

What Is the Origin of The Name Kalani?

Kalani has roots in Hawaiian culture, derived from the words “ka” meaning “the” and “lani” meaning “heavens” or “sky.” It reflects the Hawaiian appreciation for nature and the celestial world.

Kalani Name Popularity

Popularity Chart of the Name Kalani in the U.S. over the Years

United States flagUnited States#3392021#3742022#3782023
Top 3 Rankings#3392021#3742022#3782023

Annual Statistics Breakdown for Kalani

YearName RankingNumber of BirthsBirth Rate (%)
2023378
(-4 from 2022)
810
(-32 from 2022)
0.04631
2022374
(-35 from 2021)
842
(-116 from 2021)
0.04696
2021339
(+58 from 2020)
958
(+174 from 2020)
0.05347
2020397
(+72 from 2019)
784
(+116 from 2019)
0.04435
2019469
(+116 from 2018)
668
(+143 from 2018)
0.03641
2018585
(-41 from 2017)
525
(-43 from 2017)
0.02823
2017544
(+130 from 2016)
568
(+135 from 2016)
0.03007
2016674
(+164 from 2015)
433
(+99 from 2015)
0.02237
2015838
(+234 from 2014)
334
(+95 from 2014)
0.01712
20141072
(+298 from 2013)
239
(+69 from 2013)
0.01222
20131370
(-63 from 2012)
170
(-10 from 2012)
0.00882
20121307
(+132 from 2011)
180
(+23 from 2011)
0.00928
20111439
(+236 from 2010)
157
(+31 from 2010)
0.00810
20101675
(-262 from 2009)
126
(-40 from 2009)
0.00643
20091413
(+536 from 2008)
166
(+58 from 2008)
0.00820
20081949
(-166 from 2007)
108
(-12 from 2007)
0.00519
20071783
(-187 from 2006)
120
(-14 from 2006)
0.00567
20061596
(+145 from 2005)
134
(+21 from 2005)
0.00641
20051741
(-305 from 2004)
113
(-30 from 2004)
0.00557
20041436
(+318 from 2003)
143
(+36 from 2003)
0.00709
20031754
(+162 from 2002)
107
(+15 from 2002)
0.00533
20021916
(+148 from 2001)
92
(+11 from 2001)
0.00466
20012064
(+213 from 2000)
81
(+13 from 2000)
0.00409
20002277
(+6 from 1999)
68
(+3 from 1999)
0.00341
19992283
(+646 from 1998)
65
(+21 from 1998)
0.00334
19982929
(-340 from 1997)
44
(-5 from 1997)
0.00227
19972589
(+504 from 1996)
49
(+11 from 1996)
0.00257
19963093
(-307 from 1995)
38
(-5 from 1995)
0.00198
19952786
(+448 from 1994)
43
(+8 from 1994)
0.00224
19943234
(+542 from 1993)
35
(+7 from 1993)
0.00180
19933776
(+1274 from 1992)
28
(+9 from 1992)
0.00142
19925050
(+131 from 1991)
19
(+1 from 1991)
0.00095
19915181
(-1558 from 1990)
18
(-11 from 1990)
0.00089
19903623
(+497 from 1989)
29
(+6 from 1989)
0.00141
19894120
(-895 from 1988)
23
(-7 from 1988)
0.00115
19883225
(+1631 from 1987)
30
(+14 from 1987)
0.00156
19874856
(-317 from 1986)
16
(-1 from 1986)
0.00085
19864539
(+536 from 1985)
17
(+3 from 1985)
0.00092
19855075
(+822 from 1984)
14
(+3 from 1984)
0.00076
19845897
(-440 from 1983)
11
(-1 from 1983)
0.00061
19835457
(+77 from 1982)
12
No change from 1982
0.00067
19825534
(-1190 from 1981)
12
(-5 from 1981)
0.00066
19814344
(+398 from 1980)
17
(+2 from 1980)
0.00095
19804742
(+1446 from 1979)
15
(+5 from 1979)
0.00084
19796188
(+757 from 1978)
10
(+2 from 1978)
0.00058
19786945
(-2293 from 1977)
8
(-6 from 1977)
0.00049
19774652
(+1396 from 1976)
14
(+5 from 1976)
0.00085
19766048
(+1126 from 1975)
9
(+2 from 1975)
0.00057
19757174
(+1600 from 1974)
7
(+2 from 1974)
0.00045
19748774
(-1484 from 1972)
5
(-1 from 1972)
0.00032
19730
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19727290
(-670 from 1971)
6
(-1 from 1971)
0.00037
19716620
(+1377 from 1970)
7
(+2 from 1970)
0.00040
19707997
(-1230 from 1964)
5
No change from 1964
0.00027
19690
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19680
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19670
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19660
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19650
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19646767
(-2749 from 1963)
5
(-6 from 1963)
0.00026
19634018
First SSA data recorded
11
First SSA data recorded
0.00055
19620
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19610
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19600
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19590
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19580
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19570
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19560
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19550
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19540
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19530
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19520
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19510
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19500
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19490
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19480
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19470
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19460
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19450
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19440
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19430
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19420
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19410
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19400
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19390
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19380
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19370
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19360
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19350
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19340
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19330
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19320
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19310
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19300
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19290
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19280
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19270
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19260
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19250
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19240
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19230
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19220
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19210
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19200
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19190
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19180
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19170
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19160
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19150
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19140
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19130
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19120
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19110
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19100
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19090
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19080
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19070
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19060
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19050
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19040
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19030
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19020
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19010
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
19000
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18990
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18980
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18970
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18960
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18950
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18940
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18930
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18920
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18910
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18900
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18890
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18880
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18870
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18860
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18850
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18840
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18830
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18820
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18810
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000
18800
No SSA data
0
No SSA data
0.0000

American States Popularity Rankings for Kalani

(From the Most to Least Popular, Based on Number of Births )

California (CA)

California (CA) flagCalifornia (CA)#4812021#5952022#7362023

Florida (FL)

Florida (FL) flagFlorida (FL)#1782021#2382022#2642023

Texas (TX)

Texas (TX) flagTexas (TX)#3622021#3982022#3792023

Georgia (GA)

Georgia (GA) flagGeorgia (GA)#1582021#1542022#1532023

North Carolina (NC)

North Carolina (NC) flagNorth Carolina (NC)#1642021#1982022#2312023

New York (NY)

New York (NY) flagNew York (NY)#4842021#5472022#5202023

Virginia (VA)

Virginia (VA) flagVirginia (VA)#2842021#2292022#4212023

Illinois (IL)

Illinois (IL) flagIllinois (IL)#3202021#4072022#3702023

Pennsylvania (PA)

Pennsylvania (PA) flagPennsylvania (PA)#3592021#4812022#3602023

Louisiana (LA)

Louisiana (LA) flagLouisiana (LA)#1372021#1702022#1712023

South Carolina (SC)

South Carolina (SC) flagSouth Carolina (SC)#1482021#1502022#1152023

New Jersey (NJ)

New Jersey (NJ) flagNew Jersey (NJ)#3742021#5282022#3942023

Ohio (OH)

Ohio (OH) flagOhio (OH)#3982021#4762022#4442023

Alabama (AL)

Alabama (AL) flagAlabama (AL)#2002021#1862022#1592023

Tennessee (TN)

Tennessee (TN) flagTennessee (TN)#2952021#2622022#3712023

Michigan (MI)

Michigan (MI) flagMichigan (MI)#4252021#3572022#3102023

Maryland (MD)

Maryland (MD) flagMaryland (MD)#2062021#3692022#3042023

Mississippi (MS)

Mississippi (MS) flagMississippi (MS)#902021#1472022#902023

Washington (WA)

Washington (WA) flagWashington (WA)#10162021#9982022#11732023

Indiana (IN)

Indiana (IN) flagIndiana (IN)#3012021#4152022#4392023

Arizona (AZ)

Arizona (AZ) flagArizona (AZ)#7082021#6562022#6132023

Missouri (MO)

Missouri (MO) flagMissouri (MO)#4362021#6832022#4862023

Wisconsin (WI)

Wisconsin (WI) flagWisconsin (WI)#2772021#4482022#6922023

Arkansas (AR)

Arkansas (AR) flagArkansas (AR)#3322021#1562022#2772023

Oklahoma (OK)

Oklahoma (OK) flagOklahoma (OK)#5782021#3132022#3652023

Colorado (CO)

Colorado (CO) flagColorado (CO)#4572020#3842021#8322023

Kentucky (KY)

Kentucky (KY) flagKentucky (KY)#3252021#3322022#7922023

Massachusetts (MA)

Massachusetts (MA) flagMassachusetts (MA)#6872020#3882021#6272022

Kansas (KS)

Kansas (KS) flagKansas (KS)#3402020#6262021#4202023

Nevada (NV)

Nevada (NV) flagNevada (NV)#3432020#5712021#3902022

Connecticut (CT)

Connecticut (CT) flagConnecticut (CT)#5192021#5172022#5772023

Minnesota (MN)

Minnesota (MN) flagMinnesota (MN)#8042020#9112021#5762022

Iowa (IA)

Iowa (IA) flagIowa (IA)#6332020#6282021#4722022

Utah (UT)

Utah (UT) flagUtah (UT)#7792019#7162020#7722021

New Mexico (NM)

New Mexico (NM) flagNew Mexico (NM)#2752017#3662019#3582020

West Virginia (WV)

West Virginia (WV) flagWest Virginia (WV)#3542020#2912021#3282023

Nebraska (NE)

Nebraska (NE) flagNebraska (NE)#3392021#2912023

Hawaii (HI)

Hawaii (HI) flagHawaii (HI)#2682012#2312018#2392019

District of Columbia (DC)

District of Columbia (DC) flagDistrict of Columbia (DC)#1962023

Oregon (OR)

Oregon (OR) flagOregon (OR)#6562020

Popularity Rankings for Kalani in other Countries and American Territories

(From the Most to Least Popular, Based on Rankings)

Popularity in New Zealand

New Zealand flagNew Zealand#3402018#3832019#4142020

Popularity in Canada

Canada flagCanada#12482021#13322022

Source: Social Security Administration (SSA) and Other National Sources

Is Kalani a Name for Boys or Girls?

Kalani fits well for both genders, thanks to its Hawaiian roots and the universal appeal of its meaning related to the sky. This name transcends gender, offering a beautiful option for any child.

Variants, Nicknames, Diminutives, and Ideal Middle Names for Kalani

Kalani in Famous People Names, Pop Culture, and Places

  • Kalani Hilliker (Dancer, born 2000): An American dancer and actress who gained fame on the reality TV show "Dance Moms."
  • Kalani Peʻa (Singer, born 1983): A Grammy-winning Hawaiian singer and songwriter celebrated for his contributions to Hawaiian music.
  • Kalani Brown (Basketball Player, born 1997): An American professional basketball player known for her impressive skills on the court.
  • Kalani Queypo (Actor, born 1986): An American actor who has appeared in films such as "The New World" and TV series like "Jamestown."
  • Kalani Chapman (Surfer, born 1982): A professional surfer from Hawaii who competes in major international surfing competitions.
  • Kalani Das (Musician, born 1963): An American percussionist and educator known for his work in music therapy and instructional books.
  • Kalani Ball (Surfer, born 1997): An Australian professional surfer who competes on the World Surf League.
  • Kalani Hilliker ("Dance Moms," 2012 TV Series): A talented dancer known for her performances and dynamic presence on the show.
  • "Kalani Pe’a" (2016 Album): A Grammy-winning Hawaiian music album celebrating the culture and traditions of Hawaii.
  • "Kalani's Journey" (2019 Novel): Follows the adventures of a young girl named Kalani as she navigates through mystical lands.
  • Kalani Faagata ("90 Day Fiancé," 2018 TV Series): A cast member who navigates the challenges of an international relationship.
  • "Kalani of the Islands" (2005 Film): A movie depicting the life and struggles of a native Hawaiian girl named Kalani.
  • Kalani Queypo ("Into the West," 2005 Miniseries): Portrays a Native American character in this historical drama series.
  • Kalani High School (Hawaii, USA): A public high school located in the East Honolulu district.
  • Kalani Beach Park (Hawaii, USA): A coastal park offering scenic views and recreational activities.
  • Kalani Gardens (Nairobi, Kenya): A residential estate located in the suburb of Nairobi.
  • Kalani River (Central Province, Sri Lanka): A major river flowing through the central and western regions of Sri Lanka.
  • Kalani Valley (Hawaii, USA): A residential area located in the valley region of East Honolulu.
  • Kalani Coastal Road (Bali, Indonesia): A scenic coastal route providing access to beaches and local attractions.

Similar Names to Kalani

Sibling Names for Kalani

Parents Who Like the Name Kalani Also Like

Did Kalani win you over? I hope so! If you’re still looking, don’t worry—there are plenty more names to discover in my guide. Check out more and have fun choosing!
Helen Doanna

Helen Doanna

Editor in Chief, Educational Specialist, and Senior Content Creator

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Child Development Specialist, Child-care Coordinator, Family Support Specialist, Content Writer, Communications Specialist, Educational Consultant, STEAM Teacher

Education

1. University of Social Science and Humanity, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

  • Program: Bachelor’s degree in Faculty of Literature and Journalism
  • Focus: In-depth knowledge of Literature, knowledge and skills to perceive, create literature or work in related fields; Basic knowledge of communications.

2. University of Social Science and Humanity, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

  • Program: Bachelor’s degree in Education Faculty
  • Focus: Core knowledge of social sciences and humanities – the root for the development of progressive values of education, Multicultural communication in education, Contemporary education in the context of globalization, Learning in the digital technology era, Basic issues of STEAM education, Classroom Management, Special education.

3. Oregon State University, Oregan, US

  • Program: Bachelor’s degree in Faculty of Human Development and Family Sciences – Child Development
  • Focus: Different stages of development, from infancy to adulthood; Develop a strong foundation for a career in early childhood programs or classrooms; Learn strategies for supporting young children’s development in early childhood settings.
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Helen is an experienced educational specialist and content creator, known for her innovative approach to children’s learning. With a background in literature and child development, she composes engaging educational content for SimpleKids.net. Her work emphasizes creativity, engagement, and simplicity, aiming to make learning enjoyable and accessible for children and their families.

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