The name Keli has its origins in Hawaiian culture and language. It is a diminutive form of the name Kelikoku, which means "the chief" or "the leader" in Hawaiian. The name Keli was likely first used as a shortened version of Kelikoku during the late 18th or early 19th century.

In ancient Hawaiian mythology, Keli was the name of a demigod who was known for his strength and bravery. He was said to be the son of the god Ku and the mortal woman Hina. The stories of Keli's exploits were passed down through oral traditions and chants.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Keli can be found in the journals of Captain James Cook, who visited the Hawaiian Islands in 1778-1779. Cook's journals mention a chief named Keli who ruled over the island of Kauai at that time.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the name Keli. One of the most famous was Keli'iahonui, who was the king of the island of Kauai in the late 18th century. He was known for his resistance against the rule of Kamehameha I, who was attempting to unify the Hawaiian Islands under his control.

Another notable figure was Keli'i Kalama, a Hawaiian composer and musician who lived in the late 19th century. He was known for his contributions to the Hawaiian Renaissance, a movement that sought to revive and preserve Hawaiian culture and traditions.

In the 20th century, Keli Moniz was a famous Hawaiian surfer who was inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame in 2005. He was born in 1935 and is credited with helping to popularize the sport of surfing in Hawaii and around the world.

Keli'i Tau'a was a Hawaiian musician and singer who was born in 1945. He was known for his work in promoting and preserving traditional Hawaiian music and dance, and he won several Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, which are considered the highest honors in Hawaiian music.

Overall, the name Keli has a rich history rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition. It has been associated with leaders, demigods, artists, and influential figures throughout the centuries, reflecting the enduring legacy of this name within the Hawaiian community.