Home βΊ Baby Names Directory βΊ Kehlani
Kehlani
Pronounced keh-LAH-nee /kΙΛlΙΛ.ni/High
Meaning: Sea, ocean β possibly derived from Hawaiian kai (sea) or a variant of Kailani (sea and sky); likely a modern coinageLow
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Kehlani appears to be a modern variant or elaboration of Hawaiian names such as Kailani (from kai, sea, and lani, sky or heaven). The precise etymology is uncertain β it may be a creative modern coinage rather than a traditional Hawaiian name β but its components are grounded in the Hawaiian lexical tradition.
Kehlani was largely unknown as a given name before Oakland-based R&B singer Kehlani Parrish rose to fame in the mid-2010s. Following her Grammy nomination and album success, the name entered U.S. Social Security records in significant numbers and has grown steadily as parents drawn to its musicality and Hawaiian feel adopt it.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- β
Kehlani (b. 1995)American R&B singer-songwriter from Oakland, California, who brought the name to mainstream attention.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Kehlani mean?
Kehlani is likely derived from Hawaiian roots meaning 'sea' or 'sea and sky,' though its exact etymology is uncertain as it may be a modern coinage.
How do you pronounce Kehlani?
Kehlani is pronounced keh-LAH-nee /kΙΛlΙΛ.ni/ β three syllables with stress on the second.
Is Kehlani a boy or girl name?
Kehlani is used as a girls' name in the United States.
How popular is Kehlani?
Kehlani surged in the U.S. following singer Kehlani's rise to fame in the 2010s and continues to grow in popularity.