Lyle

♂ Boy

Pronounced LYL /laɪl/High

Meaning: The island; from Old French l'isle (the island), a place-name for someone from an islandHigh

In 30 seconds: A Scottish surname meaning 'the island,' from Old French l'isle. A crisp one-syllable name that found popularity in Scotland and North America — associated with songwriter Lyle Lovett and guitarist Lyle Mays.

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Origin HighScottish, French

MeaningThe island; from Old French l'isle (the island), a place-name for someone from an island

U.S. rank (2024)#1018 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births218 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1922

Total births (all-time)≈ 58,977

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Lyle is a Scottish and English surname from Old French l'isle (the island), referring to families who lived on or near an island. It became a hereditary surname and then a given name in Scotland and North America.

Lyle was moderately popular in the U.S. through the 20th century and ranked #1018 for boys in 2024.

Did you know? Lyle Lovett (born 1957) is one of country music's most distinctive voices and lyricists — and his brief marriage to actress Julia Roberts (1993–1995) put the name Lyle on celebrity pages worldwide, briefly making it feel glamorous.

Overall data confidence 91%

Behind the Name — Lyle — Old French etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

LisleLyal

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Lyle Lovett (1957–present)
American singer-songwriter known for his country, blues, and folk music. Also known for his brief marriage to actress Julia Roberts.

If you like Lyle…

Kyle— one-syllable Scottish name with the same crisp, narrow-water feel

Clyde— one-syllable Scottish river name with the same quiet vintage quality

Lloyd— one-syllable Welsh name with the same quiet classic character

Leland— two-syllable L-opening name with the same Scottish-American heritage

Lyndon— two-syllable L-opening surname name with the same presidential quiet

Frequently Asked

What does the name Lyle mean?

Lyle means 'the island,' from Old French l'isle. It was a Scottish surname for families who lived on or near an island.

How do you pronounce Lyle?

It's said LYL — one syllable, rhyming with 'mile.'

Is Lyle a boy or girl name?

Lyle is used as a boys' name.

How popular is Lyle?

Lyle ranked #1018 for U.S. boys in 2024.