The name Lyndsay is of English origin, derived from the name of an English town called Lindsey or Lindsai. This town was located in the county of Lincolnshire, England, and its name is believed to have originated from the Old English words "lind," meaning "lime tree," and "ey," meaning "island."

The name Lyndsay was initially used as a surname, referring to people who came from the town of Lindsey or Lindsai. It was not until the Middle Ages that the name began to be used as a given name, primarily for males. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Lyndsay as a given name dates back to the 12th century, when a Scottish nobleman named Lyndsay of Ercildoun was mentioned in historical records.

In the 13th century, a Scottish knight named Sir James Lyndsay fought in the Wars of Scottish Independence alongside William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. He was renowned for his bravery and loyalty to the Scottish cause. In the 14th century, another notable figure named Sir David Lyndsay served as the Lord Lyon King of Arms in Scotland.

Over time, the name Lyndsay became more commonly used as a feminine given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. One of the earliest known women to bear the name Lyndsay was Lady Lyndsay of Crawford, who lived in Scotland during the 15th century.

In literature, the name Lyndsay has been used for various characters, including Lyndsay Grandish, a character in Jane Austen's novel "Persuasion," published in 1817. Another famous literary figure named Lyndsay is the protagonist of the novel "The Fortunes and Misfortunes of the Famous Moll Flanders" by Daniel Defoe, published in 1722.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have been named Lyndsay, including:

1. Lyndsay Wagner (born 1949), an American actress known for her roles in television shows like "The Bionic Woman" and "The Six Million Dollar Man."
2. Lyndsay Bridgwood (born 1960), a Canadian actress and voice artist who has worked in films, television shows, and video games.
3. Lyndsay Lamb (born 1992), a Canadian actress known for her roles in television series like "The Best Years" and "The Killing."
4. Lyndsay Arrington (born 1979), an American soccer player who played as a midfielder for the United States women's national soccer team.
5. Lyndsay Faye (born 1976), an American novelist and author of historical crime fiction, best known for her novel "The Gods of Gotham."