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Li
Pronounced LEE /ΛliΛ/Medium
Meaning: Li is the pinyin romanization of several distinct Chinese names and one of the most common Chinese surnames. Because it stands for different characters, it can carry meanings such as 'strength,' 'reason' or 'principle,' or 'plum.' Written here in plain Latin, and pronounced simply 'lee.'Low
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
Li is a romanized Chinese name that, depending on the underlying character, may mean 'strength,' 'reason' or 'principle,' or 'plum.' It appears in American records with Chinese immigrant families across the later twentieth century.
It was never common in the United States, given to only about fifteen boys a year even at its peak around 2001. A boy named Li here usually reflects Chinese family heritage.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Li mean?
It is a Chinese romanization; depending on the character it can mean 'strength,' 'reason,' or 'plum,' and it is also a very common surname.
How do you pronounce Li?
It is said LEE /ΛliΛ/ - one syllable.
Is Li a boy or girl name?
Li is used as a boy's name.
How popular is Li?
It was always rare in the United States, given to only about fifteen boys a year even at its peak in the two-thousands.