Ali sits next to 3 phonetic neighbors — Aly, Allie, and Alley are the closest matches by sound. Most share Ali's Arabic-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"noble, exalted, high"
"lover of horses, friend to horses"
"descendant of the king"
"strategic warfare and the arts"
"pearl"
"diminutive of Philippa/Filippa"
"graceful, ornament"
"linden tree valley"
"honor, dignity"
"speckled, freckled"
"gift of God"
"light and warmth from the sun"
"divine, heavenly"
"strong, vigorous"
"treasure, fortune"
"noble strength (alternate etymology)"
"unique, rare"
"whirlwind, storm wind"
"golden one"
"grace, kindness"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Ali — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Arabic origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Ali.
Rhythm: Ali is a 2-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.