Kali
Kali first appears in US records in 1957. It peaked in 2019, when 1,312 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 948.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Kali popular?
Rising Kali has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 6,625 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 9,909 | |
| 2000s | 5,759 | |
| 1990s | 6,848 | |
| 1980s | 2,752 | |
| 1970s | 526 | |
| 1960s | 87 | |
| 1950s | 21 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Kali mean?
From Sanskrit 'kali', the feminine of 'kala' meaning 'black, dark'. The name of the fierce Hindu goddess Kali; the sense is often blurred by popular etymology with a second 'kala' meaning 'time'. Include respectfully as a deity name.
Names like Kali
sanskrit names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Kali
Popular sanskrit names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Kali
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Kali mean?
Kali means the black one. From Sanskrit 'kali', the feminine of 'kala' meaning 'black, dark'. The name of the fierce Hindu goddess Kali; the sense is often blurred by popular etymology with a second 'kala' meaning 'time'. Include respectfully as a deity name.
What is the origin of the name Kali?
Kali is of sanskrit origin.
How do you pronounce Kali?
Kali is pronounced “KAH-lee.”
Is Kali a boy or a girl name?
Kali is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Kali a popular name right now?
Kali has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Kali?
In 2025, Kali ranked #323 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Kali most popular?
Kali was most popular in 2019, when about 1,312 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Kali?
Names similar to Kali include Anaya, Anika, Reva, Diya, Aadhya.
What names go well with Kali?
sanskrit names that pair well with Kali include Tara, Trisha, Bodhi, Anaya, Chandra.