Laney

Laney can develop from Lane, an English surname and word meaning a narrow road or path. The final y gives it the shape of a familiar nickname, but it is also used as a full given name. In this route, the meaning belongs to Lane; the extra ending does not add a separate descriptive quality.

Lainie is a related spelling, though similar forms can also arise from other longer names. A particular family's Laney may therefore have a personal name connection that differs from the Lane explanation. When comparing spellings, Laney makes the relationship to Lane especially visible. Its informal shape does not require a longer official name, and a full-name choice should be distinguished from a household nickname.