The given name Tyler originated from the English occupational surname Tyler, derived from the Old French word tuilier, meaning "tiler" or "tile maker." This surname can be traced back to the medieval era when it referred to those who crafted and laid tiles for roofs and floors.

The name's earliest recorded use as a given name dates back to the late 16th century. One of the earliest known individuals with the name Tyler was Sir Tyler Norwood (c. 1580-1652), an English landowner and Member of Parliament during the reign of King Charles I.

In the 17th century, Tyler Bigg (1629-1699) was a notable English clergyman and academic who served as the President of Corpus Christi College, Oxford.

The American Revolutionary War saw the emergence of Tyler as a popular given name. One of the most famous individuals with this name was John Tyler (1790-1862), the 10th President of the United States. He assumed the presidency after the death of William Henry Harrison in 1841.

Another notable figure in American history was Tyler Gatewood Dennett (1815-1900), a renowned lawyer and politician who served as the President of the Ohio Constitutional Convention in 1873.

In the realm of literature, the name is associated with Tyler Hawkins (1851-1925), an American writer and poet who was part of the Fireside Poets movement in the late 19th century.

The name Tyler gained further popularity in the 20th century, with individuals like Tyler Hamilton (born 1971), an American former professional cyclist, and Tyler Perry (born 1969), the acclaimed African American actor, writer, producer, and director.

While the name originated from an occupation, it has evolved over time to become a widely recognized and accepted given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its historical roots and associations with notable figures have contributed to its enduring popularity across generations.