Lynn
Also spelled: Lynne, Lin
Pronunciation: LIN
Meaning
Lake, waterfall; or a classical variant of Linda meaning 'beautiful'
Origin
Celtic, Germanic
The Story Behind Lynn
The name Lynn has a dual origin. As a Celtic name, it derives from the Welsh word 'llyn', meaning 'lake' or 'pool', and is also found in Irish and Scottish Gaelic with similar meanings related to water. It was originally a topographical surname for someone living near a lake or waterfall, and later became a given name. Its use as a given name became more widespread in the 20th century.
Separately, Lynn can also be a short form of names like Linda or Lyndsey. Linda is of Germanic origin, meaning 'beautiful' or 'soft'. The popularity of Lynn as a standalone given name, especially in English-speaking countries, increased significantly in the mid-20th century, often used for both boys and girls, though it became predominantly female.
Popularity & Trends
Popularity Trends
Is Lynn Right for Your Baby?
Lynn is a Soft, Classic, Friendly name that suits parents looking for something classic and well-established. It works well internationally and is easy to recognise across cultures. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.
Regions Where Lynn Is Used
Name Vibe
Famous People Named Lynn
- Lynn Redgrave (actress)
- Lynn Anderson (country singer)
- Lynn Swann (American football player and sportscaster)
- Lynn Fontanne (actress)
- Lynn Nottage (playwright)
Lynn in different fonts
Spelling Variants
These names are alternative spellings or variants of Lynn:
Names Similar to Lynn
Names with a similar meaning or feel:
Sibling Name Style
If you like Lynn, you might also like names with these styles:
Related Names
Found in these lists
Frequently Asked Questions About Lynn
What does Lynn mean?
Lynn means "Lake, waterfall; or a classical variant of Linda meaning 'beautiful'". It is derived from Celtic, Germanic.
What is the origin of Lynn?
Lynn originates from Welsh, Irish, Germanic. Its cultural origin is Celtic, Germanic.
Is Lynn a male or female name?
Lynn is a unisex name.
How do you pronounce Lynn?
Lynn is pronounced "LIN".
What language does Lynn come from?
Lynn comes from Welsh, Irish, Germanic.
Is Lynn a popular name?
Lynn is considered a common name, and its popularity trend is declining.
What are variants of Lynn?
Variants of Lynn include Lynne, Lin.
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