What Does the Name Alani Mean?
Alani means "orange tree" in Hawaiian, tying it to the citrus trees that grow throughout the islands. Some naming sources also treat it as a feminine variant related to Alan or Alanna, though the Hawaiian botanical meaning is the most commonly cited.
The Origin & History of Alani
As a Hawaiian vocabulary name, Alani belongs to a tradition of naming children after plants, trees, and natural features considered auspicious or beautiful. Its rise as a mainstream US baby name is a more recent development, part of a broader wave of Polynesian and nature-inspired names.
Cultural Reach
Alani has moved well beyond Hawaii into wide use across the mainland US, helped by its soft, three-syllable sound and its resemblance to popular names like Alana and Elani, and it is separately used as a masculine given name in Yoruba, where it can mean "peaceful."
Famous People Named Alani
Notable bearers include Alani "La La" Anthony, the American television personality, actress, and businesswoman who rose to prominence as an MTV VJ, and Alani Nicole "Nikki" Bella, the professional wrestler and television personality.
Nicknames & Variations
Common nicknames include Lani and Ali. Related names include Alana, Alanna, and Elani, all sharing a similar sound and softness.
Is Alani a Good Name in 2026?
Alani suits parents drawn to Hawaiian and Polynesian nature names, offering a genuine botanical meaning along with an easy, flowing sound.