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Home › Baby Names Directory › Malini

Malini

♀ Girl

Pronounced muh-LEE-nee /məˈliː.ni/Medium

Meaning: From the Sanskrit Malini, 'garland-maker' or 'one who is fragrant; wearing a garland' (from mala, 'garland'). A classical Indian name, also an epithet of the goddess Durga.Medium

In 30 seconds: A fragrant Sanskrit name: Malini means 'garland-maker' (said 'muh-LEE-nee'). Classical, graceful, and sweet.
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Origin MediumSanskrit, Indian
MeaningFrom the Sanskrit Malini, 'garland-maker' or 'one who is fragrant; wearing a garland' (from mala, 'garland'). A classical Indian name, also an epithet of the goddess Durga.
U.S. rank (2024)#12918 ↗ Rising
2024 U.S. births7 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)
Peak year2004
Total births (all-time)≈ 327

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 200419732024

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

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Malini is a Sanskrit name meaning 'garland-maker; fragrant' (from mala, 'garland'), and an epithet of the goddess Durga. It has long been used across India and reads soft and melodic; we share it respectfully (said 'muh-LEE-nee').

It appears rarely for girls in the U.S., mostly in Indian-heritage families. Rare, graceful, and fragrant.

Did you know? Malini comes from the Sanskrit for 'garland-maker; fragrant' — from mala, 'garland' — and serves as an epithet of the goddess Durga. A graceful classical name (said 'muh-LEE-nee').
Overall data confidence 55%
References — Malini — Sanskrit 'garland-maker; fragrant'; epithet of Durga

Variations

MaaliniMalineeMallini

Nicknames

MaliLini

Famous Bearers

  • Famous bearers coming soon.

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By themeheritagesanskritindiangraceful

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Malini mean?

Malini is Sanskrit for 'garland-maker; fragrant,' from mala, 'garland'; it is also an epithet of the goddess Durga.

How do you pronounce Malini?

It's said muh-LEE-nee /məˈliː.ni/ — three syllables, stress on the second.

Is Malini a boy or girl name?

Malini is used as a girl's name.

How popular is Malini?

Malini is a rare name for girls in the U.S.

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