Lindsey is a variant of the name Lindsay, an English and Scottish surname turned given name. The name ultimately derives from the toponym Lindsey, an eastern region of England. In Old English, Lindsey (Lindesege) means "Lincoln island," referring to the city of Lincoln, which was once an island in the surrounding fenland. The Roman name for the settlement was Lindum Colonia, from the Brittonic *Lindon, meaning "pool" or "lake" (compare the second element of Dublin and modern Welsh llyn), likely referring to the Brayford Pool. Etymology As a given name, Lindsay was originally masculine but began shifting to female popularity in the 1960s in Britain and the 1970s in America. This shift was influenced by the name's similarity to Linda and the fame of American actress Lindsay Wagner (born 1949). Lindsey represents one of many variant spellings that grew alongside this trend, including Linsey, Lyndsay, Lyndsey, Lynsey, and Lindsie. Notable Bearers Notable individuals with the name Lindsey include American actress Lindsey Shaw (born 1989), known for television roles; Australian actress Lindsey da Lisle; and American football player Lindsey Lamar (born 1989). As a unisex name, Lindsey is used for both genders but is predominantly female in contemporary usage. Key Facts: Meaning: From the toponym Lindsey, "Lincoln island" Origin: English and Scottish Type: Surname turned given name Gender: Mostly female, also masculine Usage regions: Primarily English-speaking countries