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Malini

Girl name · Indian

Meaninggarland-maker · Sanskrit

Malini is an Indian girl name meaning “garland-maker”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name.

Did you know?

  • AnagramShuffle the letters of Malini and you get Milani. Same letters, different name.
  • Hidden namesLook closely: Malini has the name Ali hiding inside it.
  • GenerationMalini peaked in 1975, which makes it a Gen X name. The typical Malini you'd meet today is about 50 years old.
  • HistoryMalini first shows up in US birth records in 1973, the first year at least 5 babies got it. It has been in use for 52 years since.
Newborn in a white knit cap
hello, little Malini

US births per million girls, 1973–2025

0510197320002024

Similar names

Girl name: MaliaUnisex name: MalloryGirl name: MalaniGirl name: MaliyahGirl name: MalayaGirl name: Malaysia
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).

About the name Malini

Malini is a girl name of Indian origin meaning “garland-maker”. With 3 syllables it has a flowing, lyrical sound, so a short middle name balances it nicely. It hit its peak in the 1970s, so it feels familiar without being trendy. It's rarely heard today, so it stands out while still being a real, established name.

Origin:Indian names

More Indian girl names

Questions about the name Malini

What does the name Malini mean?

Malini means “garland-maker” and comes from Sanskrit. Other girl names with a similar meaning include Galadriel (“radiant garland maiden”).

What is the origin of the name Malini?

Malini is Indian in origin, and its meaning traces back to Sanskrit. Other Indian names to consider are Maya (“illusion”), Lyla (“night”), Arya (“noble”) and Kali (“black”).

Is Malini a boy or girl name?

Malini is a girl name.

How popular is the name Malini?

Malini is rare: fewer than 5 US girls got it in 2025, and it was last given to 5 or more in 2024. It peaked at #5,516 in 1975, so it's a name with history that few kids share today.

What names are similar to Malini?

If you like Malini, you might also like Galadriel.

What should I know before naming my baby Malini?

Malini is an Indian girl name meaning “garland-maker”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.