Lili

♀ Girl

Pronounced LIL-ee /ˈlɪli/High

Meaning: Variant of Lily, from Latin 'lilium' (lily flower), itself from Greek 'leirion'; also linked to Hebrew 'Lilit' and used as a short form of names like Lilian and Elisabeth.High

In 30 seconds: Lili is an elegant variant of Lily, drawn from the Latin for the lily flower — a timeless emblem of purity, beauty, and grace across many cultures.

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Origin HighLatin, Hebrew

MeaningVariant of Lily, from Latin 'lilium' (lily flower), itself from Greek 'leirion'; also linked to Hebrew 'Lilit' and used as a short form of names like Lilian and Elisabeth.

U.S. rank (2024)#3028 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births54 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2003

Total births (all-time)≈ 3,800

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

The lily has been revered across civilizations — in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome — as a symbol of purity and divinity. The name Lily entered English use in the 16th century, often as a short form of Elisabeth or Lillian. Lili as a distinct spelling has long been favored in continental Europe.

The spelling Lili carries a refined, continental elegance. It was famously borne by Lili Marlene, the iconic World War II song, and by the Austrian Empress Elisabeth (nicknamed Lili). In the 21st century it has become a fashionable choice in the English-speaking world as an alternative to the more common Lily.

Did you know? Lili is the spelling preferred in several European languages including French, German, and Hungarian, making it a genuinely international form of this beloved floral name.

Overall data confidence 92%

Oxford Latin Dictionary – lilium — Etymology of lilyBehind the Name – Lily — History and variants including Lili

Variations

LilyLillyLilliLillieLilia

Nicknames

LiLil

Famous Bearers

★Liliuokalani (1838–1917)
The last sovereign monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom and composer of the song 'Aloha Oe'.

If you like Lili…

Lily— primary form of the same floral name

Isla— short, soft feminine name with similar lyrical quality

Ellie— similarly sweet two-syllable name with -ee ending

Frequently Asked

What does the name Lili mean?

Lili is a variant of Lily, from the Latin 'lilium,' meaning 'lily flower.' The lily symbolizes purity, beauty, and renewal across many cultures.

How do you pronounce Lili?

Lili is pronounced LIL-ee, with two syllables and emphasis on the first.

Is Lili a boy or girl name?

Lili is a girl's name.

How popular is Lili?

Lili is popular in several European countries including France, Germany, and Hungary, and is gaining use in English-speaking countries as an elegant spelling variant of Lily.