Meilani, a name that evokes the sun-kissed beaches and gentle breezes of Polynesia, is a beautiful and increasingly popular choice for baby girls. This modern moniker, a harmonious blend of "Mei-" and the evocative suffix "-lani," carries a sense of sweetness and serenity. Let’s delve deeper into the meaning, origin, popularity, and related names that make Meilani such an appealing option.
The Meaning of Meilani
While Meilani is a contemporary creation, its roots lie firmly in Polynesian languages. Although the exact meaning of Meilani is not explicitly defined as a traditional Polynesian name, we can interpret the meaning through its components. "Mei" often refers to beauty, while "Lani" translates to "heaven," "sky," or "royal." Therefore, Meilani can be interpreted as "beautiful heaven," "heavenly beauty," or even "royal beauty." This interpretation perfectly captures the name’s gentle sound and ethereal quality. It’s a name that whispers of natural beauty and a connection to something greater than ourselves.
A Glimpse into Popularity Trends
The name Meilani has seen a notable rise in popularity in recent years. This upward trend suggests that parents are increasingly drawn to its unique blend of modern appeal and exotic charm. While it might not be considered a classic name, Meilani fits seamlessly into today’s classroom rosters, proving its timeless beauty.
The data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides valuable insights into Meilani‘s journey in the United States:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1986 | – | 0 | 0% |
| 1987 | – | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1988 | – | 8 | 0.0005% |
| 1989-1990 | – | 0 | 0% |
| 1990 | – | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1991-2014 | – | <26 | <0.0018% |
| 2015 | – | 233 | 0.016% |
| 2016 | – | 212 | 0.0147% |
| 2017 | – | 236 | 0.0169% |
| 2018 | – | 276 | 0.0201% |
| 2019 | – | 266 | 0.0196% |
| 2020 | 892 | 243 | 0.0191% |
| 2021 | 1,116 | 159 | 0.013% |
| 2022 | 926 | 243 | 0.0184% |
| 2023 | 837 | 278 | 0.0215% |
As the data shows, prior to 2015, Meilani was an extremely rare name. Its presence began to be felt more strongly, reflecting a growing appreciation for Polynesian-inspired names and unique, modern creations. The name is continuing to grow in popularity, and is a beautiful name for any little girl.
Names that Resonate with Meilani
If you’re captivated by Meilani‘s charm, you might also be drawn to other names with similar sounds and origins. Here are some suggestions to consider:
Names that Sound Like Meilani:
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Alani | Ripe | Polynesian |
| Aulani | King’s Messenger | Polynesian |
| Iolani | To soar like the hawk | Polynesian |
| Kailani | Sea, sky | Polynesian |
| Kalani | The heavens, sky; royal one | Polynesian |
| Kawailani | The heavenly water | Polynesian |
| Kaylani | Sea heavens | Polynesian |
| Kulani | (Meaning not specified) | (Origin not specified) |
| Leilani | Heavenly flower | Polynesian |
| Lelani | (Meaning not specified) | (Origin not specified) |
| Melani | Black, dark-skinned | Greek |
| Noelani | Mist of heaven | Polynesian |
| Okalani | Heaven | Polynesian |
| Pualani | (Meaning not specified) | (Origin not specified) |
Similar Names
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Aleyna | Precious; awakening | Polynesian |
| Alonna | Precious; awakening | Polynesian |
| Kalaine | The heavens, sky; royal one | Polynesian |
| Kaleah | The flower wreath; the beloved | Polynesian |
| Kaneeta | Sound | Polynesian |
| Luannah | Enjoyment | Polynesian |
| Mahina | Moon, moon-light | Polynesian |
| Malea | Perhaps, probably | Polynesian |
| Moanna | Ocean | Polynesian |
| Ulani | Cheerful | Polynesian |
These names offer a range of options, each carrying its own unique beauty and connection to Polynesian culture.
Meilani: A Name for a New Generation
Meilani is more than just a name; it’s an expression of beauty, serenity, and a connection to the natural world. Its rising popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters. Whether you’re drawn to its Polynesian roots, its gentle sound, or its modern sensibility, Meilani is a name that is sure to enchant for generations to come.