American Girl Names That Mean the Sky
American girl names that mean the sky turn out to cluster around one small Hawaiian root, lani, remixed into a dozen fresh American spellings.
Names232
OriginAmerican
Meaningthe Sky
GenderGirl
Look down this list and one syllable keeps surfacing: lani, the Hawaiian word for heaven or sky, borrowed into English and bolted onto many different openings. Jaylani, Kailany, Meilani, Ahlani, Ehlani, Maylani, Zalani, and Talani share the same sky-rooted ending.
Two names on this page take a different route to the same meaning. Neveah and its cousin Naveah spell heaven backwards, an American invention with no ties to Hawaiian, while Arelys likely traces to Aracelis, 'altar of the sky,' and Anyla leans on a sky or blue root of its own.
Why So Many American Girl Names That Mean the Sky Sound Hawaiian
American parents didn't need to speak Hawaiian to fall for lani. Once it entered the naming vocabulary, it became a building block, free to combine with almost any opening sound — Jay-, Kai-, Mei-, Ah-, Eh-, May-, Za-, Ta-. That is a distinctly American pattern: borrowing a meaning-rich foreign word and treating it like a suffix you can snap onto anything, which is exactly how Jaylani, Kailany, and Talani came to exist.
Heaven Spelled Backwards and Other American Inventions
Not every name here leans on Hawaiian. Neveah is heaven spelled backwards, an invented American name that took off after musician Sonny Sandoval named his daughter Nevaeh in 2000, one of the most successful invented names in modern American naming. Naveah is simply its respelling. Anyla and Arelys prove the sky meaning even travels through completely different roots — Swahili-Sanskrit blends and Caribbean Spanish.
Names List
Jaylani#471 in the U.S.Modern American name, possibly influenced by Arabic 'jala' (clarity, brightness) and '-ani' (a common sufPronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Kailany#581 in the U.S.Creative elaboration blending Hawaiian elements: kai meaning 'sea' or 'ocean' and lani meaning 'sky' or 'Pronounced ky-LAH-nee▶Meilani#591 in the U.S.Variant spelling of Meilana or Meilani, blending Hawaiian mei (possibly related to a term of endearment oPronounced may-LAH-nee▶Neveah#1301 in the U.S.Heaven spelled backwardsPronounced neh-VAY-ah▶Ahlani#1377 in the U.S.Heavenly one; fire of heavenPronounced ah-LAH-nee▶Ehlani#1398 in the U.S.Orange tree, heavenly clarityPronounced eh-LAH-nee▶Anyla#1450 in the U.S.Modern American name; possibly from Ana (grace) or Anil (blue/sky)Pronounced an-EE-lah▶Maylani#2124 in the U.S.Modern Hawaiian-style coinage from lani 'heaven, sky, royal', interpreted as 'heavenly'; not a traditionaPronounced mayl-AN-ee▶Naveah#2125 in the U.S.Variant of Nevaeh, 'heaven' spelled backwards; a modern American invented name.Pronounced nah-VAY-ə▶Zalani#3260 in the U.S.Modern American coinage pairing the bold Z- opening with -lani, the Hawaiian word for 'sky, heavens, royaPronounced zah-LAH-nee▶Arelys#3269 in the U.S.Modern coinage from the Spanish-speaking Caribbean, a variant of Arelis, of uncertain formation — possiblPronounced ah-reh-LEES▶Talani#3371 in the U.S.Modern American coinage pairing the Ta- opening with -lani, the Hawaiian element meaning 'sky, heavens, rPronounced tah-LAH-nee▶Aylany#3386 in the U.S.Modern variant of Ailani/Aylani, from Hawaiian elements read as 'high chief' or 'heavenly leader'Pronounced ay-LAH-nee▶Xylani#3562 in the U.S.Modern American coinage joining a stylish X- opening to -lani, the Hawaiian element for 'heavens', with nPronounced zy-LAH-nee▶Navaeh#3615 in the U.S.Variant of Nevaeh — 'heaven' spelled backward — a wholly modern American coinagePronounced nə-VAY-ə▶Kaloni#3715 in the U.S.From Hawaiian kalani, 'the heavens, the sky, the royal one' (ka, 'the', plus lani, 'heaven'); -oni spelliPronounced kah-LOH-nee▶Skylyn#3737 in the U.S.Modern blend of Sky (the heavens) with -lyn, 'lake'; also echoing 'skyline'Pronounced SKY-lin▶Lehlani#3779 in the U.S.Modern spelling of Leilani — Hawaiian lei, 'garland of flowers', plus lani, 'heaven' — 'heavenly flowers'Pronounced leh-LAH-nee▶Leiani#3780 in the U.S.Variant in the Leilani family — Hawaiian lei, 'garland', plus (la)ni, 'heaven' — 'heavenly garland'Pronounced lay-AH-nee▶Mialani#3787 in the U.S.Modern blend of Mia ('mine/beloved') with Hawaiian -lani, 'heaven, royal' — a melodic coinagePronounced mee-ah-LAH-nee▶Dailani#3826 in the U.S.Modern blend joining a Dai-/Day- opening to Hawaiian -lani, 'heaven, royal'; no single fixed rootPronounced dy-LAH-nee▶Kaylanni#4144 in the U.S.Styling of Kailani — Hawaiian kai, 'sea', plus lani, 'sky, heaven' — 'sea and sky'Pronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Kehlany#4145 in the U.S.-y styling of Kehlani — Hawaiian, read 'sea and sky / heaven' (kai + lani lines)Pronounced kə-LAH-nee▶Malahni#4151 in the U.S.Modern coinage in the -lani/-lahni sound family, echoing Hawaiian lani, 'sky, heaven'; routes informalPronounced mah-LAH-nee▶Ailanys#4186 in the U.S.Modern Latino coinage echoing Ailani (Hawaiian 'chief, sky') with a -ys ending; no single fixed rootPronounced eye-LAH-niss▶Laniya#4237 in the U.S.Modern coinage in the La-/-niya family, echoing Hawaiian lani, 'heaven, sky'; no single fixed rootPronounced lə-NEE-ah▶Neilani#4252 in the U.S.Styling in the -lani family (echoing Leilani, 'heavenly flowers/child') — Hawaiian lani, 'sky, heaven'; rPronounced nay-LAH-nee▶Aylanni#4288 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Ayla ('moonlight') and the -lani ending ('heaven'); double-n styling; no single fiPronounced ay-LAH-nee▶Malanii#4334 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Melanie ('dark') and the -lani ending ('heaven'); double-i styling; no single fixePronounced mah-LAH-nee▶Jaylanie#4504 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining Jay- to a -lanie ending (echoing Leilani/-lani, 'heaven'); no single fixed rootPronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Kylar#4510 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Kyle ('a narrow strait') and Skylar with a Ky-/-lar styling; here for girls; no siPronounced KY-lər▶Naelani#4524 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Nae-/Nai- sound to the -lani ending ('heaven'); no single fixed rootPronounced nah-ay-LAH-nee▶Layloni#4601 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Layla ('night') and the -lani/-loni ending ('heaven'); no single fixed rootPronounced lay-LOH-nee▶Miliani#4612 in the U.S.From Hawaiian Mililani, 'gentle caress; to praise/exalt heaven'; also a modern -ani coinage; routes layerPronounced mee-lee-AH-nee▶Yalani#4645 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Ya- opening to the -lani ending ('heaven'); no single fixed rootPronounced yah-LAH-nee▶Aolanis#4659 in the U.S.Modern -s elaboration of Aolani — Hawaiian ao, 'cloud', plus lani, 'heaven' — 'heavenly cloud'; styling iPronounced ow-LAH-niss▶Caylani#4670 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Cay-/Kai sound to the -lani ending ('heaven'); no single fixed rootPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Leilana#4952 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Leilani ('heavenly flowers', Hawaiian) and Lana; no single fixed rootPronounced lay-LAH-nah▶Nolani#4975 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing the Hawaiian -lani ('heaven, sky, royal') names and Nola; often read 'of the heavePronounced noh-LAH-nee▶Thiana#4994 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Tiana ('princess', a Tatiana short form) and Diana ('divine, heavenly'); no singlePronounced tee-AH-nah▶Kaylahni#5071 in the U.S.-h- spelling of Kalani/Kaylani — from Hawaiian, 'the heavens; the sky, the royal one'; routes layeredPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Keyani#5205 in the U.S.Modern coinage echoing Kiana (a Hawaiian Diana) and the -ani/-lani ('heaven') names; no single fixed rootPronounced kee-AH-nee▶Dehlani#5323 in the U.S.Spelling of Delani — echoing Delaney ('descendant of the challenger', Irish) and Leilani ('heavenly flowePronounced də-LAH-nee▶Jaylanni#5340 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Jay- opening to -lani ('heavenly, royal', Hawaiian/Polynesian); no single fixed Pronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Kelany#5353 in the U.S.Modern spelling echoing Kalani ('the heavens', Hawaiian) and Delaney; no single fixed rootPronounced kə-LAH-nee▶Lanaya#5358 in the U.S.Modern blend of a La- prefix with Naya/Anaya ('graceful; caring; sky', Arabic/Sanskrit-linked); no singlePronounced lə-NAY-ah▶Nelani#5384 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Ne- opening to -lani ('the heavens, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed rootPronounced nə-LAH-nee▶Skylie#5403 in the U.S.Modern blend of Sky/Skye ('the sky'; the Isle of Skye, 'cloud island') with a -lie ending (echoing Kylie,Pronounced SKY-lee▶Daelani#5465 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining a Dae- opening to -lani ('the heavens, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed rootPronounced day-LAH-nee▶Elany#5474 in the U.S.Modern coinage joining an El- opening (echoing Eleanor/Elena) to a -any/-lani ending ('heavenly'); no sinPronounced eh-LAH-nee▶Ciani#5640 in the U.S.A modern name echoing 'cyan' (sky-blue) and Gianni/Cianni ('God is gracious', Italian); no single fixed rPronounced see-AH-nee▶Deylani#5648 in the U.S.A modern name with a Dey- opening and the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed root;Pronounced day-LAH-nee▶Xaelia#5760 in the U.S.A modern coinage with an Xa- opening and -elia ending — echoing the -iel/heavenly names and Aelia ('the sPronounced zay-EL-ee-ah▶Marlani#5882 in the U.S.A modern name joining a Mar- opening ('of the sea', Latin) with the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', HawaiiPronounced mar-LAH-nee▶Taylani#5922 in the U.S.A modern name joining a Tay- opening (echoing Taylor) with the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', Hawaiian); Pronounced tay-LAH-nee▶Zylani#5940 in the U.S.A modern name joining a Zy- opening with the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed roPronounced zy-LAH-nee▶Tylani#6119 in the U.S.A modern name joining a Ty- opening with the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed roPronounced ty-LAH-nee▶Ellani#6211 in the U.S.A modern name with an El- opening and the -lani ending ('heaven, royal', Hawaiian); no single fixed root;Pronounced eh-LAH-nee▶Laylanie#6270 in the U.S.A modern name echoing Layla ('night', Arabic) and Leilani ('heavenly flower', Hawaiian); no single fixed Pronounced lay-LAH-nee▶Olani#6316 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing the Yoruba ola, 'wealth, honor', and the Hawaiian -lani, 'sky, heaven'; Pronounced oh-LAH-nee▶Zeilani#6365 in the U.S.A modern name echoing Leilani ('heavenly flower', Hawaiian) and the -lani names, with a Zay- opening; no Pronounced zay-LAH-nee▶Ailanni#6377 in the U.S.A modern name echoing Ailani ('high chief; heavenly') and Leilani; the -lani element is Hawaiian, 'sky, hPronounced eye-LAH-nee▶Azori#6406 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing azure ('sky-blue') and the Azores islands; the precise origin is uncertaPronounced ə-ZOR-ee▶Jeylani#6474 in the U.S.A modern name echoing Jelani ('mighty; powerful', Swahili) and Leilani ('heavenly flower', Hawaiian); usePronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Julani#6480 in the U.S.A modern name with a Ju- opening and the -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'sky, heaven'); echoing Leilani and JuliPronounced joo-LAH-nee▶Raelani#6559 in the U.S.A modern name joining Rae (a pet of Rachel, 'a ewe', or 'grace') with the -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'sky, hPronounced ray-LAH-nee▶Yulani#6601 in the U.S.A modern coined name, likely echoing Yulia and the Hawaiian Leilani ('heavenly flowers'); no single fixedPronounced yoo-LAH-nee▶Yurani#6602 in the U.S.A modern Latina coined name, likely echoing Yuri and the Greek Urania ('the heavenly one'); no single fixPronounced yoo-RAH-nee▶Zailani#6604 in the U.S.A modern coined name, likely joining Zaila with the popular -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'heaven'); no single Pronounced zy-LAH-nee▶Ayliani#6648 in the U.S.A modern coined name, likely echoing Aylin and the Hawaiian Leilani ('heavenly flowers'); no single fixedPronounced ay-lee-AH-nee▶Khaylani#6780 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing the Hawaiian Kailani ('sea and sky'); the Kh- styling personalizes it; routPronounced ky-LAH-nee▶Leani#6790 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing the Hawaiian Leilani ('heavenly flowers') and Leana; no single fixed root; Pronounced lay-AH-nee▶Nialani#6828 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining Nia (variously 'purpose'; 'bright') with the -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'heavePronounced nee-ah-LAH-nee▶Ahilany#6915 in the U.S.A modern Latina coined name, echoing Ailani and the Hawaiian Leilani ('heavenly flowers'); no single fixePronounced ah-ee-LAH-nee▶Ciella#6972 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing the French ciel, 'sky', and Stella/Ella; no single fixed root; routes uncerPronounced see-EL-ah▶Kaiani#7053 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining Kai ('sea', Hawaiian, among other meanings) with the -ani ending (echoing LPronounced ky-AH-nee▶Khailany#7067 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing Kailani ('sea and sky') and Delaney; no single fixed root; routes uncertainPronounced ky-LAH-nee▶Leylany#7083 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing Leila ('night', Arabic) and Leilani ('heavenly flower', Hawaiian); routes uPronounced lay-LAH-nee▶Meylani#7118 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing Meilani/Leilani ('heavenly'); no single fixed root; routes uncertainPronounced may-LAH-nee▶Naloni#7130 in the U.S.A modern coined name, echoing the Hawaiian Nalani ('the heavens; the calm skies'); routes layeredPronounced nah-LOH-nee▶Raylani#7156 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining Rae with the -lani ending (echoing Leilani, 'heavenly'); routes uncertainPronounced ray-LAH-nee▶Kalana#7385 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Hawaiian Kalani ('the heavens; the royal one') and Kalan; routes uncertaPronounced kah-LAH-nah▶Starlie#7524 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining the word star with a -lie ending (echoing 'starlit; starry'); a celestial/wPronounced STAR-lee▶Zyalani#7564 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining a Zya- element with the -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'heaven; sky; royal'); no sPronounced zee-uh-LAH-nee▶Ailanie#7574 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Hawaiian Ailani ('high chief') and Leilani ('heavenly flowers'); routes Pronounced eye-LAH-nee▶Aylanie#7621 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Hawaiian Ailani ('high chief') and Leilani ('heavenly flowers'); routes Pronounced eye-LAH-nee▶Jolani#7739 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining the prefix Jo- with the fashionable -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'heaven; sky');Pronounced joh-LAH-nee▶Kaylany#7752 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining Kayla with the Hawaiian-style -lani ending ('heaven; sky'); no single fixedPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Khaloni#7759 in the U.S.A modern coined name, variously echoing Khalani ('heaven', Hawaiian-style) with an -oni ending; no singlePronounced kah-LOH-nee▶Khlani#7761 in the U.S.A modern coined name, a contracted spelling of Khalani/Kalani (Hawaiian, 'the heaven; the sky; the royal Pronounced kuh-LAH-nee▶Laniah#7773 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing the -lani element ('heaven; sky', Hawaiian) and a Lania coinage; no singPronounced luh-NY-ah▶Nehlani#7831 in the U.S.A modern coined name, joining the prefix Neh- with the fashionable -lani ending (Hawaiian, 'heaven; sky')Pronounced neh-LAH-nee▶Skailyn#7879 in the U.S.A modern name, joining Sky/Skye (the English word 'sky') with the fashionable -lyn ending; no single fixePronounced SKAY-lin▶Yolani#7918 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Yolanda ('the violet flower', Greek) and the -lani element ('heaven', HaPronounced yoh-LAH-nee▶Chyla#8026 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Kyla ('slender; victorious') and Sheila ('blind; of the heavens', from CPronounced CHY-lah▶Deonni#8047 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Dion ('child of heaven/Zeus', from the Greek Dionysos) and a De-+onni blPronounced dee-ON-ee▶Jeilany#8131 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Jelani ('mighty', Swahili) and Leilani ('heavenly flowers', Hawaiian); nPronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Lailoni#8190 in the U.S.A modern name, joining Laila ('night', Arabic) with a -loni/-lani element (echoing Leilani, 'heavenly floPronounced ly-LOH-nee▶Nahlani#8257 in the U.S.A modern name, joining a Nah- element (echoing Nahla, 'a drink of water', Arabic) with the -lani ending (Pronounced nah-LAH-nee▶Navae#8266 in the U.S.A modern name, variously a spelling of Navaeh/Nevaeh ('heaven' spelled backwards) and a Na-+-vae coinage;Pronounced nuh-VAY▶Sylah#8341 in the U.S.A modern name, variously a spelling of Syla/Skyla and a short Sy-+-lah coinage; no single fixed root; rouPronounced SY-lah▶Xialani#8379 in the U.S.A modern name, joining a Xia- element with the -lani ending ('heaven', Hawaiian; echoing Leilani); no sinPronounced shah-LAH-nee▶Zilani#8406 in the U.S.A modern name, joining a Zi- element with the -lani ending ('heaven', Hawaiian; echoing Kehlani); no singPronounced zih-LAH-nee▶Eylani#8588 in the U.S.A modern name, joining an Ey- element with the -lani ending ('heaven', Hawaiian; echoing Leilani/Kehlani)Pronounced ay-LAH-nee▶Kalany#8661 in the U.S.A modern name, a spelling echoing Kalani ('the heavens; the chief', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; routPronounced kah-LAH-nee▶Keloni#8677 in the U.S.A modern name, a spelling echoing Kehlani ('heaven; sea and sky', Hawaiian-style); no single fixed root; Pronounced keh-LOH-nee▶Khylani#8686 in the U.S.A modern name, joining a Khy- element with the -lani ending ('heaven', Hawaiian; echoing Kehlani/Leilani)Pronounced ky-LAH-nee▶Lavaeh#8701 in the U.S.A modern name, read variously as a La-+-vaeh coinage (echoing Nevaeh, 'heaven' reversed); no single fixedPronounced lah-VAY▶Laylanii#8702 in the U.S.A modern name, a spelling echoing Leilani ('heavenly flowers; a royal child of heaven', Hawaiian); no sinPronounced lay-LAH-nee▶Seilah#8846 in the U.S.A modern name, a spelling echoing Sheila ('blind; a heavenly one', from Cecelia) and Selah (a Hebrew termPronounced SEE-lah▶Azhuri#9000 in the U.S.A modern name, a stylized spelling echoing Azure/Azuri ('sky-blue', from the Persian lazhward, 'lapis lazPronounced ah-ZHOOR-ee▶Celise#9032 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Celeste ('heavenly', Latin) and Elise ('God is my oath', Hebrew); no sinPronounced suh-LEESE▶Dahlani#9041 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Dahlia (the flower) and Leilani ('heavenly flowers', Hawaiian); no singlPronounced dah-LAH-nee▶Deilani#9050 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Leilani ('heavenly flowers', Hawaiian) and Delilah; no single fixed rootPronounced day-LAH-nee▶Kaylonie#9211 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Kaylon and Kalani ('the heavens/sky', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; rPronounced kay-LOH-nee▶Kayoni#9212 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Kaiyoni and Kalani ('the heavens/sky', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; Pronounced kay-OH-nee▶Kayonni#9213 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Kaiyoni and Kalani ('the heavens/sky', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; Pronounced kay-OH-nee▶Kelahni#9216 in the U.S.A modern name, echoing Kehlani/Kalani ('the heavens; the sky', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; routes unPronounced keh-LAH-nee▶Kylanii#9243 in the U.S.A modern name, echoing Kylani/Kalani ('the heavens; the sky', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; routes uncPronounced ky-LAH-nee▶Laylanni#9257 in the U.S.A modern name, variously joining Layla ('night', Arabic) with a -lanni ending (echoing Leilani, 'heavenlyPronounced lay-LAH-nee▶Lolani#9276 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Leilani ('heavenly flowers') and Iolani ('royal hawk', Hawaiian); no sinPronounced loh-LAH-nee▶Naveya#9349 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Nevaeh ('heaven' reversed) and Navy; no single fixed root; routes uncertPronounced nah-VAY-ah▶Naviah#9350 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Nevaeh ('heaven' reversed) and a Nav- + -iah coinage; no single fixed roPronounced nah-VEE-ah▶Niveah#9359 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Nevaeh ('heaven' reversed) and Nivea (Latin, 'snowy'); no single fixed rPronounced nih-VAY-ah▶Skylen#9441 in the U.S.A modern name, joining a Sky- element (from the word sky, or Skylar, 'a scholar', Dutch) with a -len endiPronounced SKY-len▶Yeilani#9499 in the U.S.A modern name, echoing Leilani ('heavenly flowers; royal child', Hawaiian); no single fixed root; routes Pronounced yay-LAH-nee▶Allani#9561 in the U.S.A modern name, echoing Alani ('an orange tree', Hawaiian) and Leilani ('heavenly'); no single fixed root;Pronounced uh-LAH-nee▶Anaveah#9662 in the U.S.A modern coinage with no documented etymology. It joins Ana with a -veah ending that echoes Nevaeh, itselPronounced ah-nuh-VAY-uh▶Jaylahni#9821 in the U.S.A modern name, joining the Jay- prefix with a -lahni ending (echoing Leilani/Kailani, 'heavenly', HawaiiaPronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Kahlanii#9844 in the U.S.A modern name, variously echoing Kalani ('the heavens/sky/chief', Hawaiian) and Khaleesi (a fictional titPronounced kah-LAH-nee▶Klanii#9896 in the U.S.A modern name, echoing Kalani ('the heavens/sky', Hawaiian) with a Kl- opening; no single fixed root; rouPronounced KLAH-nee▶Ralani#10068 in the U.S.A modern name, variously joining a Ra- opening with the Hawaiian -lani ('heaven; sky; royal'); a fresh coPronounced rah-LAH-nee▶Nalahni#10098 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing the sounds of Nalani (Hawaiian, 'the heavens; calmness of the skies') and KehlanPronounced nuh-LAH-nee▶Valani#10180 in the U.S.A modern name, variously joining a Val- opening (from names like Valerie, 'strong') with the Hawaiian -laPronounced vah-LAH-nee▶Xalani#10196 in the U.S.A modern name, variously joining a stylized X- (read 'Z') opening with the Hawaiian -lani ('heaven; sky')Pronounced zah-LAH-nee▶Akaysha#10461 in the U.S.Akaysha is an elaborated spelling that echoes both Akasha, a Sanskrit word for 'sky' or 'aether,' and thePronounced uh-KAY-shuh▶Jhalani#10605 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining a Jha- prefix with the -lani ending of Kehlani/Leilani ('heavenly flowers'). No Pronounced juh-LAH-nee▶Kalanni#10627 in the U.S.A double-n spelling of Kalani, from the Hawaiian ka lani, 'the heavens; the sky; the royal one.' The -nniPronounced kuh-LAH-nee▶Kayliani#10645 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining Kayli (from Kayla) with the -ani/-lani sound of Leilani/Kalani ('heavenly'). No Pronounced kay-lee-AH-nee▶Kehlanie#10652 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Kehlani, a Hawaiian-styled name read as 'sea and sky' or 'heaven' (from lani, 'sky;Pronounced keh-LAH-nee▶Kehlanni#10653 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Kehlani with doubled -nn, a Hawaiian-styled name read as 'sea and sky' or 'heaven' Pronounced keh-LAH-nee▶Kheilani#10665 in the U.S.A Hawaiian-styled spelling in the Kailani/Kehlani family, read as 'sky; heaven' or 'sea and sky' (from laPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Leiloni#10793 in the U.S.A modern respelling of the Hawaiian Leilani, 'heavenly flowers; royal child' (lei, 'garland of flowers,' Pronounced lay-LOH-nee▶Nevaeha#10821 in the U.S.Nevaeha is an extended spelling in the Nevaeh family — Nevaeh being 'heaven' spelled backwards, a modern Pronounced nuh-VAY-uh▶Nevaya#10822 in the U.S.Nevaya is a simplified spelling in the Nevaeh family — Nevaeh being 'heaven' spelled backwards, a modern Pronounced nuh-VY-uh▶Noveah#10833 in the U.S.A modern coinage reading near Nova ('new; a new star') and in the Nevaeh family ('heaven' spelled backwarPronounced no-VAY-ah▶Tehlani#10983 in the U.S.A modern American coinage riding the popular -lani ending seen in Kehlani and Leilani (Hawaiian 'heavenlyPronounced teh-LAH-nee▶Ulanni#11000 in the U.S.A modern coinage riding the popular -lani sound (Hawaiian 'heavenly'), close to Ulani ('cheerful'). ReshaPronounced oo-LAH-nee▶Khalanii#11618 in the U.S.A modern coinage that echoes the Hawaiian Kalani, 'the heavens; the sky; the chief; royal one.' As a fresPronounced kah-LAH-nee▶Leiyani#11668 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing the Hawaiian lani ('heaven; sky; royal') and Leilani, layered with the -ani sounPronounced lay-YAH-nee▶Luniva#11693 in the U.S.A modern coinage pairing a Lun- prefix (from Luna, 'moon') with an -iva ending seen in Aviva/Neva. CelestPronounced loo-NEE-vah▶Milliani#11769 in the U.S.A name echoing Hawaiian Mililani ('heavenly caress; to praise heaven'), reshaped with the popular -ani enPronounced mih-lee-AH-nee▶Neviah#11820 in the U.S.A modern coinage, read as a cousin of Nevaeh ('heaven' spelled backward) or a Nev- opening with the -iah Pronounced neh-VY-ah▶Zaelani#12088 in the U.S.A modern coinage layering a Zae- opening with the -lani ending of Kehlani and Leilani; by that Hawaiian ePronounced zay-LAH-nee▶Zehlani#12105 in the U.S.A modern coinage closely echoing Kehlani, layering a Zeh- opening with the -lani ending; by that HawaiianPronounced zeh-LAH-nee▶Adiana#12143 in the U.S.A modern name read as a blend of Adriana ('from Hadria') and Diana ('divine; heavenly'), or as a coined APronounced ad-ee-AH-nah▶Alyrah#12199 in the U.S.Alyrah is a modern coinage echoing Lyra (the celestial lyre) with an A- prefix and -ah ending. It has no Pronounced ah-LY-rah▶Cyla#12410 in the U.S.A short modern coinage, read variously as a respelling near Sheila or a trimmed Kayla/Skyla. No single fiPronounced SY-lah▶Cylah#12411 in the U.S.A variant spelling of Cyla (with a decorative -h), a short modern coinage read near Sheila or Skyla. No sPronounced SY-lah▶Deava#12446 in the U.S.A modern coinage read near Diva or the Sanskrit Deva ('divine; heavenly; deity'). By the Deva route it toPronounced DEE-vah▶Diani#12467 in the U.S.A modern name read near Diana (Roman goddess of the moon and hunt, 'divine; heavenly'), with an -i endingPronounced dee-AH-nee▶Deonne#12498 in the U.S.Deonne is best read as a form of Dionne, a name popularized in America and usually traced to the Greek DiPronounced dee-ON▶Heavynn#12614 in the U.S.Heavynn is a modern respelling of the word-name Heaven, from the Old English heofon, 'the sky' and, in ChPronounced HEV-in▶Kahlanni#12706 in the U.S.Kahlanni reads as a modern American coinage in the popular -lani family (echoing Kailani, 'sea and sky'),Pronounced kuh-LAH-nee▶Kheylani#12769 in the U.S.Kheylani is a modern coinage in the family of Kehlani, blending a Khey- start with the Hawaiian-flavored Pronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Kiahna#12773 in the U.S.Kiahna is a spelling of Kiana, often read with a Hawaiian flavor as 'divine; heavenly' (linked to Diana),Pronounced kee-AH-nuh▶Khalanie#12932 in the U.S.A modern coinage in the Kalani/Kehlani family with the -lani sound that echoes the Hawaiian lani, 'heavenPronounced kah-LAH-nee▶Muhlani#13009 in the U.S.Muhlani reads as a modern American coinage built on the popular -lani ending, borrowed from Hawaiian laniPronounced moo-LAH-nee▶Navayah#13030 in the U.S.Navayah reads as a modern American coinage, most plausibly a reshaping of Nevaeh (heaven spelled backwardPronounced nuh-VY-uh▶Naylanie#13033 in the U.S.Naylanie is a modern American coinage joining a Nay- opening to the -lani ending, from Hawaiian lani, 'skPronounced nay-LAH-nee▶Skailar#13241 in the U.S.Skailar is a modern respelling of Skylar/Schuyler. The root is the Dutch surname Schuyler, from schuilen,Pronounced SKY-lur▶Skylarmarie#13242 in the U.S.Skylarmarie is a modern American double name written as one word: Skylar (from the Dutch surname SchuylerPronounced SKY-lur-muh-ree▶Skyra#13243 in the U.S.Skyra is a modern coinage: the word Sky joined to the -ra ending heard in Kyra, Lyra and Myra. No traditiPronounced SKY-ruh▶Soulani#13253 in the U.S.Soulani reads as a modern American coinage: the word soul (or the Sou- of Sofia and similar names) joinedPronounced soo-LAH-nee▶Aelani#13466 in the U.S.A modern American coinage built to echo Hawaiian names such as Alani and Leilani (Hawaiian lani, 'sky; hePronounced ay-LAH-nee▶Anakin#13581 in the U.S.An invented name from the Star Wars films, where Anakin Skywalker becomes Darth Vader; it has no traditioPronounced AN-uh-kin▶Azurii#13672 in the U.S.Azurii is a modern coinage on azure — the deep sky-blue whose name came into English through Old French aPronounced uh-ZOOR-ee▶Caely#13740 in the U.S.A modern respelling in the Kaylee/Kayleigh family — sometimes traced to the Irish Caoilfhionn ('slender aPronounced KAY-lee▶Caylei#13775 in the U.S.A modern respelling of Kaylee/Kayleigh — a name variously traced to the Irish Caoilfhionn ('slender and fPronounced KAY-lee▶Celi#13779 in the U.S.A short form of Celia, Celeste or Celina, names from the Latin caelum/caelestis, 'sky; heavenly.' Some faPronounced SEL-ee▶Devaeh#13879 in the U.S.Devaeh reads as a modern American coinage patterned on Nevaeh — famously 'heaven' spelled backwards — witPronounced duh-VAY-uh▶Schylar#14112 in the U.S.Schylar is a stylized respelling of Skylar or Schuyler, the Dutch surname (from schuilen/scholier roots) Pronounced SKY-ler▶Jaylanii#14173 in the U.S.Jaylanii is a stylized spelling of Jaylani — the Jay- prefix joined to -lani, an ending shared with KailaPronounced jay-LAH-nee▶Nailany#14692 in the U.S.Nailany reads as a modern coinage shaped by the popular -lani ending — the Hawaiian element lani, 'sky; hPronounced nay-LAH-nee▶Nalanni#14698 in the U.S.Nalanni respells Nalani, a Hawaiian name usually read as 'the heavens' (na, a plural marker, plus lani, 'Pronounced nuh-LAH-nee▶Nalany#14699 in the U.S.Nalany is a modern American respelling of Nalani, the Hawaiian name read as 'the heavens' (lani, 'sky; hePronounced nuh-LAH-nee▶Azurae#15533 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing 'azure' (a clear sky-blue), reshaped with a soft -ae ending. No single fixed rouPronounced ah-ZHOOR-ay▶Leilene#15599 in the U.S.Leilene is a recent American coinage that echoes Leilani, from Hawaiian lei ('flower garland') and lani (Pronounced lay-LEE-nee▶Azouri#15648 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing 'azure' (sky-blue) and the Swahili Zuri ('beautiful'), with a soft -ouri ending.Pronounced ah-ZOOR-ee▶Celiana#15726 in the U.S.A modern blend joining Celia — from Latin Caelia, tied to caelum, 'heaven' — with Ana, 'grace'. The blendPronounced sel-ee-AH-nuh▶Chyler#15728 in the U.S.Chyler is an invented American name that reworks the trendy -yler sound of Skyler and Tyler behind a softPronounced KY-lur▶Deyana#15847 in the U.S.A modern spelling in the Dayana/Diana family (Diana is often read 'divine; heavenly'); as spelled it readPronounced day-AH-nah▶Heavan#16123 in the U.S.Heavan is a spelling variant of the English word Heaven, from an Old English root for the sky or the heavPronounced HEV-un▶Javaeh#16195 in the U.S.A modern coinage that belongs to the Nevaeh family — names built by playing with the spelling of 'heaven'Pronounced juh-VAY▶Shylin#16235 in the U.S.Shylin is a recent invented name that pairs a Shy- opening with the -lin ending seen in Rylin and Skylin.Pronounced SHY-lin▶Celisa#16239 in the U.S.Celisa reads most plausibly as a coined blend joining Celia or Celeste (Latin caelum, 'sky, heaven') withPronounced seh-LEE-sah▶Kehilany#16377 in the U.S.A modern coinage with the -lani ending that echoes the Hawaiian lani, 'heaven; sky'; as spelled it is a cPronounced keh-ee-LAH-nee▶Kaylanis#16403 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing Kaylani/Kailani (Hawaiian, 'sea and sky') with an -is ending. By that echo it toPronounced kay-LAH-nis▶Keyloni#16410 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining a Key- opening to a -loni ending, echoing the -lani sound tied to the Hawaiian lPronounced kay-LOH-nee▶Kaelahni#16411 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing the Hawaiian-styled Kalani ('the heavens; the sky; royal one') and Kehlani, builPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Keelani#16414 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining a Kee- opening to the -lani ending, which echoes the Hawaiian lani, 'heaven; skyPronounced kee-LAH-nee▶Keilahni#16419 in the U.S.A modern coinage in the Kailani/Kehlani family with the -lani ending that echoes the Hawaiian lani, 'heavPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶Kelanii#16423 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing Kehlani and the Hawaiian Kalani ('the heavens; the sky; royal one'). By that echPronounced keh-LAH-nee▶Khilani#16427 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing Kailani and Kalani (Hawaiian, 'the sky; sea and sky'). By that echo it touches 'Pronounced kih-LAH-nee▶Khylar#16430 in the U.S.Khylar reads as a modern coinage echoing Skyler and Kyler (surname names from Dutch/English roots, 'scholPronounced KY-lar▶Keylanie#16450 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing Kaylani/Kailani (Hawaiian, 'sea and sky'). By that echo it touches 'heavenly'; aPronounced KAY-luh-nee▶Keilanys#16462 in the U.S.A modern coinage in the Kailani family, here with a final -s; the -lani sound echoes the Hawaiian lani, 'Pronounced kay-LAH-nees▶Khelany#16468 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing Kehlani and the Hawaiian Kalani ('the heavens; the sky'). By that echo it touchePronounced keh-LAH-nee▶Klahni#16546 in the U.S.Klahni is a modern coinage in the sound-family of Kehlani and other -lani names, echoing the Hawaiian lanPronounced KLAH-nee▶Leilanee#16593 in the U.S.A phonetic respelling of Leilani, a genuine Hawaiian name from lei ('flowers, garland, child') and lani (Pronounced lay-LAH-nee▶Lunarae#16672 in the U.S.A modern coinage built on Luna (Latin, 'the moon,' the Roman moon goddess) with a -rae ending (from Rae, Pronounced LOO-nuh-ray▶Lyria#16684 in the U.S.A modern coinage echoing the lyre (an ancient stringed instrument) and Lyra, the constellation named for Pronounced LEER-ee-uh▶Novalea#16973 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining Nova (Latin, 'new'; also 'a new star') with a -lea/-leah ending. Celestial and cPronounced noh-vuh-LEE-uh▶Sailani#17161 in the U.S.A modern coinage joining a Sai- sound with the Hawaiian element lani ('heaven; sky; royal'). It has no siPronounced sy-LAH-nee▶Skyrah#17299 in the U.S.Skyrah reads as a modern blend of the English word sky with the -yra sound of Kyra or Myra, or an elaboraPronounced SKY-ruh▶Skyann#18509 in the U.S.Skyann is a modern American coinage that joins the nature word Sky, from the Old Norse sky, 'cloud,' to APronounced sky-AN▶AurlaniA modern coinage joining an Aur- opening with the Hawaiian element lani ('heaven; sky; royal; heavenly');Pronounced or-LAH-nee▶AylaneeA modern coinage echoing the -lani sound of Leilani ('heavenly flowers') and Alani ('orange tree,' HawaiiPronounced ay-LAH-nee▶AzuriyahA modern coinage echoing 'azure' (sky-blue) and the Hebrew Azariah ('the Lord helps'), with a flowing -iyPronounced ah-zoo-REE-yah▶BraylaniA modern coinage pairing a Bray- opening (as in Braylee) with the Hawaiian element -lani ('heaven; sky; rPronounced bray-LAH-nee▶CarlaniA modern coinage joining a Car- opening with the -lani sound (Hawaiian 'sky; heaven; royal'). It has no sPronounced kar-LAH-nee▶HaylaniA modern blend of Hailey with the Hawaiian Leilani ('heavenly flower; royal child of heaven'). By that roPronounced hay-LAH-nee▶KailanisA modern coinage extending Kailani with an -s close. Kailani is itself a modern name built from Hawaiian Pronounced ky-LAH-nis▶KheilanyA modern coinage echoing Kailani (Hawaiian, 'sea and sky'). By that echo it touches 'heavenly'; as a coinPronounced kay-LAH-nee▶KoalaniKoalani is a Hawaiian-styled name pairing koa ('warrior; the koa tree; brave') with lani ('heaven, sky, rPronounced koh-ah-LAH-nee▶KolaniKolani is a Hawaiian-styled name featuring lani ('heaven, sky, royal'). Whether traditional or a modern HPronounced koh-LAH-nee▶NovaskyeA modern compound joining Nova (Latin, 'new'; a brightening star) with Skye (the sky; the Scottish Isle oPronounced NOH-vah-sky▶OrlaniA modern coinage in the -lani family (the Hawaiian lani, 'heaven; sky,' is the fashionable ending), blendPronounced or-LAH-nee▶QilaniA modern coinage in the -lani family (from Hawaiian lani, 'heaven; sky'), a Q-spelling of the Kilani sounPronounced kee-LAH-nee▶RyalaniA modern coinage joining a Rya-/Rye- sound with the Hawaiian element lani ('heaven; sky; royal'). It has Pronounced ry-uh-LAH-nee▶TrulaniA modern coinage joining the English 'true' with the fashionable -lani ending (Hawaiian lani, 'sky; heavePronounced troo-LAH-nee▶VaylaniA modern coinage joining a Vay- sound with the -lani ending (echoing the Hawaiian lani, 'heaven; sky'). TPronounced vay-LAH-nee▶
More American Meaning Guides
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Frequently Asked
What does Neveah mean and where does it come from?
Neveah is heaven spelled backwards, an invented American name that took off after musician Sonny Sandoval named his daughter Nevaeh in 2000 — one of the most successful invented names in American naming.
Why do so many names on this list end in -lani?
Lani is the Hawaiian word for sky or heaven, and American parents have combined it with all kinds of openings to create names like Jaylani, Meilani, Ahlani, and Talani — each one a fresh spin on the same sky-rooted ending.
Is Arelys related to the Hawaiian -lani names on this list?
No. Arelys comes from the Spanish-speaking Caribbean and is likely a remix of Aracelis, meaning 'altar of the sky' — a separate linguistic path to the same sky meaning as the Hawaiian-style names here.