What does Lindsay mean and where does it come from?
Lindsay is of Scottish origin, initially derived from a surname that points to a location in Scotland. The name means 'island of linden trees', referring to the linden tree, which is known for its heart-shaped leaves and fragrant flowers. It rose in popularity in the English-speaking world, particul
Cultural significance
Lindsay has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of island of linden trees.
Peak popularity
Reached #36 in 1983 — currently #2083 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lindsay?
Lindsay works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lindsay Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lindsay Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lindsay Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lindsay Claire
French influence · crisp
Lindsay Jane
Literary · strong
Lindsay Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lindsay right now?
Falling — down 313 spots — currently #2083 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2083 | 93 | ▼ down 313 · -21% births |
| 2022 | #1770 | 117 | ▼ down 315 · -21% births |
| 2021 | #1455 | 148 | ▲ up 188 · +19% births |
| 2020 | #1643 | 124 | ▼ down 791 · -62% births |
| 2015 | #852 | 328 | ▼ down 255 · -33% births |
| 2010 | #597 | 491 | ▼ down 357 · -65% births |
| 2005 | #240 | 1,398 | ▼ down 61 · -22% births |
| 2000 | #179 | 1,800 | ▼ down 54 · -30% births |
| 1995 | #125 | 2,562 | ▼ down 56 · -49% births |
| 1990 | #69 | 5,039 | ▼ down 29 · -36% births |
| 1985 | #40 | 7,872 | ▲ up 31 · +81% births |
| 1980 | #71 | 4,355 | ▲ up 325 · +744% births |
| 1975 | #396 | 516 | ▲ up 910 · +529% births |
| 1970 | #1306 | 82 | ▲ up 271 · +64% births |
| 1965 | #1577 | 50 | — |
The story of Lindsay
Lindsay entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. Its peak popularity was #36 in 1983. More than 134,954 babies have been named Lindsay since 1916. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2761 in 1940 to #2083 in 2023. Lindsay is used for both genders: 96% female and 4% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lindsay in 1983:
Lindsay by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 62 | |
| 1890s | 83 | |
| 1900s | 89 | |
| 1910s | 310 | |
| 1920s | 476 | |
| 1930s | 431 | |
| 1940s | 825 | |
| 1950s | 1,995 | |
| 1960s | 1,401 | |
| 1970s | 12,767 | |
| 1980s ★ | 69,151 | |
| 1990s | 31,595 | |
| 2000s | 12,332 | |
| 2010s | 3,313 | |
| 2020s | 124 | |
What are good nicknames for Lindsay?
What names sound and feel like Lindsay?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lindsay also consider these
How is Lindsay written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Lindsay
What does the name Lindsay mean?
Lindsay means "island of linden trees" — a name rooted in Scotland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Lindsay?
Lindsay is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Lindsay?
Lindsay originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Lindsay a common or rare name?
Lindsay is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Lindsay more of a girl or boy name?
Lindsay is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.