Leilani

Lyrical, lively and bold, Leilani is a name that feels fresh, floral, and summery. Sharing sounds with the popular Lillian, Layla and Luna, Leilani joined the US Top 100 in 2020.

Derived from the Hawaiian elements of lei, meaning "flowers", and lani, meaning "heavenly", Leilani can literally be translated as "heavenly flower." Alternatively, it might be interpreted as "royal child" because flower garlands worn round the neck are associated with children in Hawaii, and because lani is linked to majesty, and therefore high birth and royalty.

Leilani has been in and out of US Top 1000 since the 1930s, with Bing Crosby's song "Sweet Leilani" likely introducing it to many parents and inspiring their choices.

While it did remain in use across the 20th century, it wasn't until the mid-90s that Leilani really began to make a steady but serious rise up the charts. Influenced perhaps by the glamor of American model Leilani Bishop, by Miss Great Britain Leilani Dowding, or by the Basic Instinct actress Leilani Sarelle, the name was in the Top 500 by 2001, and the Top 100 by 2020.

Particularly popular in Hawaii, New Mexico, and Arizona, Leilani is given to over 3000 babies in the US every year. Across the pond in the UK, it has seen sporadic usage, but recently rose to be within the Top 700.

Loving Leilani and want to learn more about Hawaiian names? This wonderful list is a great place to get started, with some highlights including Iolani, Kakalina, Lillinoe, and Luana.

Pronounced lay-AHL-ah-nee.

As of October 2026, Leilani ranked #60 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #59 in 2022, Nameberry popularity #545.