The name Layne is believed to have originated from the Old English word "lanu," which means "lane" or "path." It is a gender-neutral name that has been used for both boys and girls throughout history.

In its earliest recorded use, the name Layne was a surname derived from people who lived near a lane or path. The first recorded instance of the name as a given name dates back to the 13th century in England.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Layne was Sir John de la Layne, a knight who lived in Gloucestershire, England, in the late 13th century. He was documented in several historical records and charters of the time.

Another notable figure was Layne Longstaffe, an English composer and organist who lived from 1568 to 1628. He was known for his contributions to church music and served as the organist at the Ely Cathedral in Cambridgeshire.

In the 17th century, Layne Wilkins, an English philosopher and theologian, gained recognition for his work on natural religion and the existence of God. He was born in 1616 and died in 1690.

During the 18th century, Layne Humphries was an influential figure in the American Revolutionary War. He was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and actively supported the cause of independence. Humphries was born in 1742 and passed away in 1810.

In more recent times, Layne Staley was a renowned American singer and musician who fronted the rock band Alice in Chains. He was born in 1967 and tragically passed away in 2002 due to a drug overdose. Staley's powerful vocals and songwriting abilities made him a iconic figure in the grunge music scene of the 1990s.

While the name Layne has seen periods of popularity and decline over the centuries, it has maintained a unique and enduring presence, carrying with it a rich history and cultural significance.