What does Lindsey mean and where does it come from?
Lindsey is derived from an Old English surname meaning 'island of Lincoln'. The name gained prominence as a given name in the United States during the 20th century. It can also be spelled 'Lindsay' and has been used by various notable figures, including the American actress and singer Lindsay Lohan.
Cultural significance
Lindsey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lincoln's island.
Peak popularity
Reached #35 in 1983 — currently #1369 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Lindsey?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Lindsey?
Lindsey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lindsey Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Lindsey Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Lindsey Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Lindsey Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Lindsey Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
Lindsey Brynn
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Lindsey right now?
Falling — down 80 spots — currently #1369 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1369 | 161 | ▼ down 80 · -11% births |
| 2024 | #1289 | 180 | ▼ down 7 · +1% births |
| 2023 | #1282 | 179 | ▲ up 23 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #1305 | 181 | ▼ down 88 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #1217 | 195 | ▼ down 192 · -19% births |
| 2020 | #1025 | 242 | ▼ down 415 · -49% births |
| 2015 | #610 | 475 | ▼ down 210 · -41% births |
| 2010 | #400 | 801 | ▼ down 238 · -62% births |
| 2005 | #162 | 2,094 | ▼ down 59 · -35% births |
| 2000 | #103 | 3,211 | ▼ down 21 · -27% births |
| 1995 | #82 | 4,377 | ▼ down 31 · -35% births |
| 1990 | #51 | 6,781 | ▼ down 14 · -20% births |
| 1985 | #37 | 8,467 | ▲ up 54 · +150% births |
| 1980 | #91 | 3,386 | ▲ up 406 · +838% births |
| 1975 | #497 | 361 | — |
The story of Lindsey
Lindsey entered American naming records in 1924 and has been in use for over 100 years. Its peak popularity was #35 in 1983. More than 164,359 babies have been named Lindsey since 1924. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4390 in 1940 to #1282 in 2023. Lindsey is used for both genders: 95% female and 5% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lindsey in 1983:
Lindsey by decade
Lindsey peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 109 | |
| 1890s | 105 | |
| 1900s | 145 | |
| 1910s | 493 | |
| 1920s | 596 | |
| 1930s | 590 | |
| 1940s | 919 | |
| 1950s | 2,014 | |
| 1960s | 1,570 | |
| 1970s | 8,445 | |
| 1980s ★ | 73,020 | |
| 1990s | 49,400 | |
| 2000s | 21,807 | |
| 2010s | 4,893 | |
| 2020s | 601 | |
What are good nicknames for Lindsey?
What names sound and feel like Lindsey?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lindsey also consider these
How is Lindsey written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Lindsey
What does the name Lindsey mean?
Lindsey means "Lincoln's island" — a name rooted in English 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 Lindsey?
Lindsey 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 Lindsey?
Lindsey originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Lindsey?
Lindsey is a two-syllable name pronounced LINDZ-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lindsey a common or rare name?
Lindsey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.