Cali
Girl name · 262 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Cali: 262 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 27 births in 2021.
Rooted in Greek, Cali is most often a short form of Calista, meaning "most beautiful," from *kallistos* (the superlative of *kalos*). It also stands independently, with connections to the Italian region of Calabria and the Hindu goddess Kali (though those are distinct etymologies). Famous bearers include American actress Cali Timmins and Cali Morrison, a Scottish footballer who played for Celtic in the 1920s. The name also echoes California—itself derived from a fictional queen in a Spanish romance—giving it a sun-soaked, free-spirited aura. While less common in Scotland, Cali has gently risen as a modern, melodic choice, offering a softer alternative to Callie or a fresh link to nature and wanderlust.
Girl 19 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 202127 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #24215 babies
- Total births
- 262since 2005
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y