The name Lezlie is an English variant of the name Leslie, which originated from an ancient Norman family in Scotland. The name is believed to have derived from the Old French phrase "l'isle," meaning "the island," referring to a family estate near Kingussie in Inverness-shire.

The earliest recorded instances of the name date back to the 12th century, with mention of a Leslyn family in Fife, Scotland. Over time, the spelling evolved into various forms, including Lesley, Lesly, Leslye, and Lezlie.

One of the earliest notable bearers of the name was Andrew Leslie, a Scottish nobleman who lived in the late 13th century. He served as the Governor of Edinburgh Castle and played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

In the 16th century, John Leslie (1526-1596) was a prominent Scottish scholar and Catholic prelate. He served as the Bishop of Ross and was a staunch supporter of Mary, Queen of Scots.

In the literary world, the name gained recognition through the works of Scottish novelist Fiona Macleod, whose real name was William Sharp (1856-1905). He often used the pen name "Fiona Lezlie" for his writings.

Another notable bearer of the name was Lezlie Linden (1903-1998), an American actress and dancer who appeared in several Broadway productions and Hollywood films during the 1920s and 1930s.

In the realm of sports, Lezlie Ivory (born 1990) is a former American Olympic track and field athlete who specialized in the hurdles events. She won a silver medal in the 4x400-meter relay at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

While the name Lezlie is primarily associated with the English language and Scottish heritage, it has gained popularity in various parts of the world due to its unique spelling and historical significance.