Keli is a unique and beautiful name of Hawaiian origin. It means "happy" or "joyful," which makes it a fitting choice for parents looking to bestow a positive and uplifting name upon their child.
The name Keli has a rich history in Hawaiian culture. In the Hawaiian language, "keli" refers to a type of shell that is highly valued and considered sacred. These shells were often used as currency or traded for other precious items in ancient Hawaiian society.
In addition to its association with happiness and joy, the name Keli also has strong connections to Hawaiian royalty. The name was borne by several notable members of the Hawaiian monarchy, including Keli'ikuli'oulu, a high-ranking chiefess who lived during the 16th century. This further adds to the prestige and significance of the name.
Today, Keli remains a popular choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughter. Its unique sound and positive meaning make it an attractive option for those looking for something special and different from the typical popular names. Whether you're of Hawaiian descent or simply drawn to the beauty and joyfulness that this name embodies, choosing Keli as your daughter's name is sure to be a decision you'll cherish for years to come.
The name Keli has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1955 and 2022, there were a total of 4,344 births registered with the name Keli.
During the late 1950s to early 1960s, there was a steady increase in the number of babies named Keli, reaching a peak of 71 births in 1962. This trend continued into the mid-1960s with the highest number of births recorded at 130 in 1966.
However, starting from the late 1960s, there was a gradual decline in the popularity of the name Keli. By the early 1970s, the number of births had decreased significantly, with only 52 births recorded in 1973.
The 1980s saw a brief resurgence in the popularity of the name Keli, with the highest number of births during this decade at 190 in 1979. However, this was short-lived and the trend continued to decline throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s.
From the late 2000s onwards, the name Keli has been used sparingly, with fewer than 20 births recorded each year since 2006. In recent years, there have been between 5 to 12 births per year, with a total of 8 births recorded in 2022.
Despite the decline in popularity over the past few decades, Keli remains a unique and distinctive name with a rich history of use in the United States.