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Name meaning & originLincoln

/LING-kun/

Old EnglishBoy
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Lincoln is an Old English boy's name pronounced /LING-kun/. This name refers to a settlement by the pool or lake.

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Meaning of Lincoln

This name refers to a settlement by the pool or lake.

The name is derived from the city of Lincoln in England, which was originally called Lindum Colonia by the Romans. The first element, 'Lindum', comes from the Brythonic word 'lindo' meaning lake or pool, while the second element, 'colonia', refers to its status as a Roman colony. It transitioned from a place name to a surname, and eventually to a popular given name.

Origin
Old English
Pronunciation
/LING-kun/

Cultural background

While historically used in English-speaking countries, the name saw a massive surge in popularity in the United States as a tribute to President Abraham Lincoln.

Variations & nicknames

  • Linc
  • Link
  • Lincolnne
  • Lyncon

Famous people named Lincoln

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Lincoln Steffens

    Famous American investigative journalist and muckraker

    Journalism · Late 19th/Early 20th Century

  • Lincoln Ellsworth

    Polar explorer who led flights over the North and South Poles

    Exploration · Early 20th Century

  • Lincoln Chafee

    American politician who served as Governor and Senator of Rhode Island

    Politics · Modern

  • Lincoln Burrows

    Main character in the television series Prison Break

    Film · Modern

  • Lincoln Loud

    Protagonist of the animated series The Loud House

    Film · Modern

Frequently asked about Lincoln

Is Lincoln traditionally a boy's name?
Yes, Lincoln has historically been used as a masculine name, though it is occasionally used for girls in modern times.
What is the most common nickname for Lincoln?
The most common nickname for Lincoln is 'Linc' or 'Link'.
Why did Lincoln become a popular first name?
Its popularity as a first name in the United States is largely attributed to the legacy of the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln.

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