The name Briar originated from the Old English word "brer", which means "prickly plant". It is believed to have been derived from the Middle English "brer" or "brere", which referred to various thorny shrubs, particularly the bramble bush.

This name gained popularity during the late medieval period in England, where it was often used as a surname for those who lived near briar patches or worked with thorny plants. The earliest recorded use of Briar as a given name dates back to the 16th century.

In literary works, the name Briar is associated with the famous fairy tale "Sleeping Beauty", where the princess pricks her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and falls into a deep sleep, surrounded by a thicket of briar roses. This tale has its roots in various European folk traditions and has been retold in many languages.

One of the earliest known individuals named Briar was Briar Bowes (c. 1550-1620), an English landowner and member of the gentry in County Durham. Another notable figure was Briar Wilkins (1619-1672), an English clergyman and author who wrote several religious treatises.

In the 19th century, Briar Anstey (1865-1939) was a British writer and playwright known for her humorous novels and plays. Briar Leland (1897-1977) was an American educator and author who wrote extensively on Native American cultures and folklore.

More recently, Briar Bauman (1938-2018) was an American politician who served as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives for several terms in the late 20th century.

While the name Briar has been more commonly used as a surname, its association with the prickly plant and its literary connections have made it a unique and nature-inspired choice for a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.