Lynn

girlWelsh / Old English

Lynn is a girl name of Welsh / Old English origin, meaning “Lake, pool”.

MeaningLake, pool
GenderGirl
OriginWelsh / Old English
PronunciationLIN
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Lynn

Lynn goes back to the Welsh word llyn, 'lake' or 'pool', which survives in English place names such as King's Lynn in Norfolk. It began as a surname taken from those places and became a given name in the twentieth century, partly as a short form of names such as Linda, Carolyn and Marilyn. It was once used for boys too, but today it is overwhelmingly feminine. It also works well as a middle name, as in 'Mary Lynn' or 'Sarah Lynn'.

Is Lynn a religious name?

Lynn has no religious background; it is a place-name and surname that became a first name.

How popular is Lynn?

Most popular in mid-twentieth-century America; now used more often as a middle name.

Gifts with the name Lynn

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Spellings and variants of Lynn

LynneLinnLyn

Names similar to Lynn

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Lynn mean?

Lynn means 'Lake, pool'. It is of Welsh / Old English origin.

Does Lynn have a religious meaning?

Lynn has no religious background; it is a place-name and surname that became a first name.

How do you pronounce Lynn?

Lynn is pronounced LIN.

Is Lynn a boy or girl name?

Lynn is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.