Origin and Meaning of Lyell

Meaning & Origin

Dweller by the meadow

Origin: Scottish - Derived from the Scottish surname 'Lyell', which is believed to come from the Old Norse 'li', meaning 'meadow'.

Interesting Facts

  • Lyell is well-known as both a given name and a surname, with roots in Scottish culture.
  • In the Scottish context, surnames often indicate geographical locations, suggesting a familial connection to meadows or grassy areas.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Sir Charles Lyell, a prominent Scottish geologist known for his work on the principles of geology and advocating for the doctrine of uniformitarianism.
  • Lyell is relatively unique as a given name and has seen varying levels of popularity, especially in the 20th century, but remains uncommon compared to more traditional names.
  • Variations and related names include Lyle and Lyla, which share phonetic similarities but have different meanings and origins.