Veli

A multicultural choice with a sound as friendly as both its meaning, Veli has its roots in Turkish, Arabic, Albanian. and Finnish.

As a Turkish and Albanian name, Veli is a form of the Arabic Wali, which ultimately comes from waliya meaning "to be close to". Used to refer to saints in Islamic tradition, it may be more broadly interpreted as "helper, friend" or "as "friend of God".

Additionally, its use in Turkey may also have been influenced by its usage during the Ottoman period, where it was usually said to mean "guardian" or "protector" adding an strength to the name.

Veli also has its roots in Finnish and Estonian, in which case, it means "brother". Other forms include the diminutives Veijo, Veikko, and Vello (VAY-yo; VAYK-o; VEH-lo).

Pronounced VEL-ee.