Lindsay

Lindsay is a surname of Scottish and English origin and also a given name derived from that surname. The surname is associated with the Lindsay family, a historically prominent Scottish noble house with ties to lands in Lothian, and it is linked to the place name Lindsay in Lincolnshire, England. The Lincolnshire toponym itself is thought to derive from Old English elements referring to a lime tree and an island or water meadow. Over time, the name spread beyond its regional origins into various English-speaking communities.

As a given name, Lindsay has been used for girls since the 19th century in English-speaking countries and gained particular popularity in the United States from the late 20th century. It is occasionally used for boys as well. Spelling variants include Lindsey and Linsey, with Lindsay being the most common form in recent decades.

Notable people with the given name include Lindsay Lohan, an American actress and singer known for early film roles and later work; Lindsay Davenport, an American former professional tennis player who reached world No. 1; Lindsay Wagner, an American actress recognized for The Bionic Woman; and Sir Lindsay Hoyle, a British politician who serves as Speaker of the House of Commons.

Notable people with Lindsay as a surname include Robert Lindsay, an English actor known for stage and screen work; and Mark Lindsay, an American musician who was the lead singer of Paul Revere & the Raiders.

Places named Lindsay include Lindsay, Ontario, Canada, a community within Kawartha Lakes, and Lindsay, California, a city in Tulare County, United States.