Nilani Kanakaʻole
A revered Hawaiian kumu hula (hula teacher) known for preserving traditional Hawaiian dance and culture.
IPA Pronunciation
nɪˈlɑːni
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Syllables
Nilani is a feminine name of Hawaiian origin meaning 'heavenly' or 'champion.' Derived from the Hawaiian words 'nila' (blue) and 'ani' (sky), it evokes the imagery of the blue sky or celestial realm. The name reflects beauty, strength, and a connection to nature and divinity within Polynesian culture.
Cultural Significance of Nilani
In Hawaiian culture, names like Nilani hold deep significance, often relating to nature and the spiritual world. The word 'lani' means 'sky' or 'heaven,' symbolizing a connection to the divine and the cosmos. Naming a child Nilani implies a blessing of heavenly protection and strength. The name has been historically used to honor the beauty of the natural world and the spiritual heritage of Hawaii.
Nilani Name Popularity in 2025
Nilani has gained popularity outside of Hawaii in recent years, especially among parents seeking unique, meaningful names with a gentle yet strong sound. It fits well with the modern trend of nature-inspired and culturally rich baby names. The name remains relatively rare, appealing to those wanting a distinctive yet beautiful name for their daughter.
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International Variations9
NeelaniNilinaNylaniNylinaNailaniNylaneeNylanieNilaneeNeelanee
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More Girl Names Starting With N10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Nilani carries the essence of “Heavenly, champion, or blue sky” from Hawaiian tradition. Names beginning with "N" often embody qualities of nature connection, nurturing, and creativity.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Hawaiian culture, names like Nilani hold deep significance, often relating to nature and the spiritual world. The word 'lani' means 'sky' or 'heaven,' symbolizing a connection to the divine and the cosmos. Naming a child Nilani implies a blessing of heavenly protection and strength. The name has been historically used to honor the beauty of the natural world and the spiritual heritage of Hawaii.
Nilani Ratnasiri
Sri Lankan poet and writer noted for her contributions to contemporary Sinhala literature.
Nilani Seneviratne
Distinguished Sri Lankan diplomat and civil servant, first woman to hold several senior government positions.
Nilani Fernando
Sri Lankan athlete specializing in sprint events, representing the country internationally.
Nilani Jayakody
Sri Lankan actress known for her roles in television dramas and films.
Nilani Rathnayake
Sri Lankan singer and musician contributing to traditional and modern music scenes.
Nilani Ratnasiri
Poet and writer
Nilani Seneviratne
Civil servant and diplomat
Nilani Jayakody
Actress
Nilani Rathnayake
Musician
Nilani Kanakaʻole
Kumu hula (Hula teacher)
Nilani Perera
Author
Nilani Dias
Journalist
Nilani Wijeratne
Visual artist
Hawaii Five-0 ()
Lost ()
Moana ()
The Descendants ()
Magnum P.I. ()
Tales of the South Pacific ()
Blue Hawaii ()
North Shore ()
Lilo & Stitch: The Series ()
Nilani
🌐Spanish
Nilani
🌐French
Nilani
🌐German
Nilani
🌐Italian
ニラニ
🌐Japanese
妮拉妮
🌐Chinese
نيلاني
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Nilani
The element 'lani' in Nilani is a common Hawaiian suffix meaning 'sky' or 'heaven,' found in many other popular Hawaiian names like Leilani and Kalani.
Personality Traits for Nilani
Girls named Nilani often embody grace, creativity, and a calm strength. They tend to be empathetic, inspiring those around them with their serene confidence. The name suggests a natural leader who is both compassionate and determined, with a love for beauty and harmony in life.
What does the name Nilani mean?
Nilani is a Hawaiian name meaning “Heavenly, champion, or blue sky”. Nilani is a feminine name of Hawaiian origin meaning 'heavenly' or 'champion.' Derived from the Hawaiian words 'nila' (blue) and 'ani' (sky), it evokes the imagery of the blue sky or celestial realm. The name reflects beauty, strength, and a connection to nature and divinity within Polynesian culture.
How do you pronounce Nilani?
Nilani is pronounced (IPA: nɪˈlɑːni). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Nilani?
Popular nicknames for Nilani include: Nila, Lani, Nini, Nilly, Nia, Nala, Lala, Nani, Ninny, Nin.
Who are famous people named Nilani?
Famous people named Nilani include: , , , , .
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Nilani is a beautiful Hawaiian name meaning “Heavenly, champion, or blue sky”. Nilani is a feminine name of Hawaiian origin meaning 'heavenly' or 'champion.' Derived from the Hawaiian words 'nila' (blue) and 'ani' (sky), it evokes the imagery of the blue sky or celestial realm. ...
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