Kehlani

Kehlani is often described as a modern variation of the Hawaiian name Kalani. The ending lani is associated with the sky, heaven, and chiefly status in Hawaiian, but that does not establish “sea and sky” as the exact meaning of this altered spelling. Its relationship with Kalani is best presented as a proposed naming connection.

Singer Kehlani is a prominent bearer who helped make the spelling familiar. Comparing Kehlani with Kalani is useful because the opening sounds and letters are not identical. Families choosing a specifically Hawaiian name may want to preserve the intended Hawaiian form, while others may be honoring the singer or an existing relative.