Layne

Layne is a given name and surname of English origin. As a given name, it is a variant of Lane, which itself derives from an English surname meaning "lane, path", originally denoting someone who lived near a lane.

Etymology

The name Layne is derived from the Old English word lane, meaning a narrow roadway or path. It was used as a topographic surname for someone residing by a lane, and later evolved into a given name. As a variant of Lane, Layne offers a slightly more modern spelling while retaining the same meaning.

Notable Bearers

Layne has been used both as a surname and a given name among notable figures. As a surname, notable bearers include Bobby Layne (1926–1986), an American football player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Alfredo Layne (1959–1999), a Panamanian boxer. In popular culture, the musician Layne Staley (1967–2002) of the rock band Alice in Chains brought prominence to the name as a given name. Others include politician Bobby Layne Rushing and filmmaker Layne

Like its root name Lane, Layne can be used as a unisex given name, though it is more common for boys in the United States. It maintained steady moderate use throughout the late 20th century.

• Meaning: Variant of Lane, meaning "lane, path"
• Origin: English
• Type: Unisex given name
• Usage regions: English-speaking countries