Shelli

Shelli is a diminutive or variant of the name Shelley. The name Shelley itself has a dual origin. It can be derived from an English surname, which was originally a place name meaning 'clearing on a bank' or 'sheltered clearing' (from Old English 'scylf' meaning 'shelf, ledge' or 'sceolh' meaning 'sloping' and 'leah' meaning 'wood, clearing'). Alternatively, it can be a diminutive of the Hebrew name Rachel, meaning 'ewe'.

The use of Shelley as a given name for girls became popular in the mid-20th century, and Shelli emerged as a phonetic spelling variant, often used to give the name a more modern or unique feel. While Shelley has seen fluctuations in popularity, Shelli has remained a less common, though recognizable, spelling.