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Layn
Pronounced LAYN /ˈleɪn/High
Meaning: Layn is a modern respelling of Lane, from the Old English lanu, 'a narrow road or path' — a surname first given to someone who lived beside one. The -ay- spelling belongs to the same fashion that produced Kayde and Jayce.Low
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Layn is a modern spelling of Lane, an English surname from Old English lanu, 'narrow road or path', given to those who lived along one. Lane crossed into first-name use in America in the twentieth century; Layn is the -ay- variant favored by contemporary spellers (said 'LAYN').
It is rare in the U.S., where Lane and Layne lead the field. Rare, brisk, and single-beat.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Layn mean?
Layn respells Lane, from Old English lanu, 'a narrow road or path' — first a surname for someone living beside one.
How do you pronounce Layn?
It's said LAYN /ˈleɪn/ — one syllable.
Is Layn a boy or girl name?
Layn is used as a boy's name; Lane and Layne are also given to girls.
How popular is Layn?
Layn is a rare name for boys in the U.S.; Lane is far more common.