The name Carlyle has its origins in the Norman French language and can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is a combination of two words – "carl" meaning a free man or peasant, and "l'isle" meaning an island or manor. Thus, the name Carlyle likely referred to a peasant or freeman living on an island or manor estate.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Carlyle can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, a comprehensive record of landholders in England commissioned by William the Conqueror. This suggests that the name was already in use among the Norman nobility who had settled in Britain after the Norman Conquest.

The name Carlyle gained popularity in Scotland during the Middle Ages, particularly in the regions of Dumfriesshire and Lanarkshire. It is believed that the name may have been introduced to Scotland by Norman settlers or through interactions with Norman nobles in England.

In the 16th century, the name Carlyle was associated with the Scottish Covenanter movement, a group of Presbyterians who opposed the religious reforms imposed by the Stuart monarchs. One notable figure from this period was Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881), a renowned Scottish essayist, satirist, and historian. His writings, particularly "The French Revolution" and "On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and the Heroic in History," had a significant impact on Victorian literature and philosophy.

Another famous bearer of the name Carlyle was the American writer Thomas Carlyle Ford (1829-1901), who was a prominent advocate for the abolition of slavery and the temperance movement. His novel "The Web of Life" was widely read in the late 19th century.

In the 20th century, Carlyle Marney (1916-1965) was an influential Baptist minister and civil rights activist in the United States. He played a crucial role in desegregating churches and advocating for racial equality.

The name Carlyle has also been associated with notable figures in the arts and entertainment industry. For example, Carlyle Blackwell (1904-1988) was a Canadian-American actor and filmmaker who appeared in several silent films and early talkies.

Overall, the name Carlyle has a rich history that spans centuries and crosses cultural boundaries. Its origins can be traced back to the Norman conquest of England, and it has been borne by notable individuals in various fields, from literature and philosophy to civil rights and entertainment.