The name Calli originates from the Greek language and can be traced back to ancient times. It is derived from the Greek word "kallos," which means beauty. The name is believed to have been first used in ancient Greece, where it was given to girls as a reflection of their physical attractiveness or inner grace.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Calli can be found in the works of the ancient Greek poet Sappho, who lived around 600 BC. In her poems, Sappho mentions a young woman named Calli, who is described as being exceptionally beautiful and admired by many.

During the Classical period of ancient Greece, the name Calli became more widely used and appeared in various historical records and literary works. In the 4th century BC, the Greek historian Xenophon mentioned a woman named Calli in his work "Hellenica," which chronicled the events of the Peloponnesian War.

In ancient Rome, the name Calli was sometimes used as a variant of the Latin name "Callia," which also meant beautiful. One notable woman from this era was Callia Crispinilla, a Roman empress who lived in the 2nd century AD and was known for her beauty and intelligence.

Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, the name Calli remained in use, although it was less common than other Greek-derived names. One notable figure from this time was Calli da Montefeltro, an Italian noblewoman and patron of the arts who lived in the 15th century.

In more recent times, the name Calli has been used by several notable individuals, including:

1. Calli Olerud (born 1963), an American former professional baseball player.
2. Calli Blackwell (born 1983), an English actress and model.
3. Calli Thorne (born 1976), an American singer-songwriter and musician.
4. Calli Ronca (born 1983), an American ice hockey player.
5. Calli Dretzen (born 1991), a Swedish singer and songwriter.

While the name Calli has its roots in ancient Greece, it has endured through the centuries and continues to be used in various cultures around the world, often as a testament to the timeless appeal of beauty and grace.