The given name Tinsley is an English surname that has been adopted as a masculine given name. It originated from a place name in England, derived from the Old English words "tun" meaning an enclosure or homestead, and "leah" meaning a woodland clearing or meadow. Thus, the name Tinsley essentially means "meadow homestead" or "homestead in a clearing."

The name Tinsley can be traced back to the 11th century in various regions of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. It was initially used as a locational surname for people who hailed from places called Tinsley, such as the areas now known as Tinsley in Sheffield and Tinsley Green in West Yorkshire.

While there are no known direct references to the name Tinsley in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it is possible that some early bearers of the name were mentioned in medieval English records or chronicles, given its longstanding presence as a locational surname.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the given name Tinsley was Tinsley Randolph (1691-1765), a prominent landowner and planter in colonial Virginia. He served as a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and was involved in the establishment of the city of Richmond.

Another notable figure was Tinsley Poyner (1753-1839), an American Revolutionary War soldier from North Carolina. He fought in several battles, including the Battle of Guilford Court House, and later received a land grant for his military service.

In the 19th century, Tinsley Mortimer (1818-1888) was a successful businessman and banker from Kentucky. He served as the president of the Northern Bank of Kentucky and was involved in various civic and philanthropic endeavors.

Moving into the 20th century, Tinsley Lindley (1904-1983) was an American architect known for designing several notable buildings in North Carolina, including the Durham County Courthouse and the Greensboro Historical Museum.

More recently, Tinsley Mortimer (born in 1975) is an American socialite, author, and reality television personality. She gained prominence for her involvement in New York City's social scene and appeared on the reality show "High Society."

While the name Tinsley has traditionally been used as a masculine given name, it has also gained popularity as a unisex name in recent decades, with both males and females bearing the name.