Lyell

The name Lyell is of Scottish Gaelic origin, derived from the Old Norse word 'ey' meaning 'island' and the Gaelic prefix 'mac' meaning 'son of'. It was originally a surname, Mac Gille Eoin, meaning 'son of the servant of John' or 'son of the devotee of St. John'. Over time, the surname evolved and was anglicized, with 'Lyell' becoming a common variant. The name is particularly associated with the Scottish Lowlands.

Its transition from a surname to a given name is less common than many other Scottish names, but it has been used as a first name, particularly in families with a historical connection to the surname. The most famous bearer, Charles Lyell, a prominent geologist, likely contributed to its recognition, though it has never achieved widespread popularity as a given name.