The name Loyd is a variant spelling of the name Lloyd, which has its roots in the Welsh language. The name is derived from the Welsh word "llwyd," which means "grey" or "brown." It is believed to have originated as a nickname or descriptive name referring to someone with grey or brown hair or complexion.

The name can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Wales, where it was commonly used as a personal name. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name is in the 13th century, when a nobleman named Llwyd ap Gruffydd was mentioned in Welsh chronicles.

In the late 15th century, the name gained prominence with the rise of the Tudor dynasty in England. The Tudors had Welsh ancestry, and several members of the royal family bore the name, including Henry VII's grandfather, Owen Tudor, whose original Welsh name was Owain ap Maredudd ap Tudur.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Loyd or Lloyd. One of the most famous was the Welsh poet and writer, Dafydd Llwyd (1501-1583), who is considered one of the most influential figures in Welsh literature.

Another notable figure was the English philosopher and mathematician, William Lloyd (1627-1717), who made significant contributions to the development of calculus and was the Bishop of Worcester.

In the 18th century, the name gained popularity in the United States, where it was often spelled as "Loyd." One of the earliest recorded instances of this spelling is Thomas Loyd (1737-1794), a Virginia planter and politician who served in the Continental Congress.

Other notable individuals with the name Loyd include the American painter and illustrator, Loyd Haberly (1903-1991), known for his illustrations in magazines such as The Saturday Evening Post and Life.

Henry Demarest Lloyd (1847-1903) was an American writer and influential social reformer who campaigned against monopolies and corporate power.

Mary Loyd (1858-1938) was an American educator and activist who played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement and the establishment of the National American Woman Suffrage Association.