Leilani is a Hawaiian female given name that has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique sound and meaning. The name originates from the Hawaiian language, where it consists of two distinct parts: "lei," which means "garland" or "wreath," and "lani," which translates to "heaven." Therefore, Leilani can be interpreted as a combination of these two elements, resulting in a beautiful name that signifies a heavenly garland.
The use of the name Leilani dates back to ancient Hawaiian culture, where it was commonly bestowed upon young girls born into noble families. These young women were often raised with the expectation that they would one day become queens or hold other high-ranking positions within the Hawaiian monarchy. As such, the name Leilani has long been associated with elegance, grace, and royalty in Hawaiian culture.
Today, Leilani is recognized as a unisex name but remains more commonly used for females. Its popularity has spread beyond Hawaii, with individuals from various backgrounds embracing this enchanting name for their children. While it may be less common than some other names, those who bear the name Leilani carry with them a rich history and a unique connection to Hawaiian culture.
In terms of pronunciation, Leilani is typically said as /lā-lee-uh-nee/, with the emphasis placed on the second syllable ("lee"). The letter "i" in Hawaiian is pronounced similar to the sound in "machine," making the name flow smoothly when spoken aloud. Overall, Leilani is a captivating choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
Here are some interesting statistics about the name Leilani in the United States:
From 1917 to 1986, the number of babies named Leilani remained relatively low, with fewer than 200 births per year on average. However, starting in 1987, there was a significant increase in the popularity of this name.
Between 1987 and 1993, the number of girls named Leilani more than doubled each year, reaching over 150 births annually by 1993. This trend continued throughout the 1990s, with the highest recorded birth years being 1996 (209 births) and 1997 (275 births).
The new millennium brought an even greater surge in popularity for Leilani. Between 2000 and 2023, there were over 49,000 births recorded annually, with the highest number being in 2022 with 3862 births.
Overall, these statistics indicate that while Leilani was not widely used as a baby name for much of the 20th century, it has become increasingly popular since the late 1980s and has been among the top names for girls in recent years.