Meaning & History
Leilany is a variant form of Leilani, a Hawaiian name that means “heavenly flowers” or “royal child” – from lei (flowers, lei, child) and lani (heaven, sky, royal, majesty). The spelling -y gives the name a more modern, Westernized twist while preserving the exotic and lyrical sound of the original.
The name Leilani was brought to international attention by Bing Crosby’s 1937 song Sweet Leilani, featured in the film Waikiki Wedding, which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. This helped popularize Hawaiian names beyond the islands. Leilany’s pronunciation, lay-LAH-nee, usually aligns with the original Hawaiian form.
Alternative forms across Polynesian cultures include Tahitian Heirani. Leilany has gained modest use in English-speaking countries as a feminine given name, particularly among families drawn to nature-inspired names and those with connections to Hawaii.
- Meaning: “heavenly flowers” or “royal child”
- Origin: Hawaiian
- Variant of: Leilani
- Usage regions: English-speaking countries