The given name Brittany originated from the region of Brittany in northwestern France. It derives from the Breton language spoken in that area, stemming from the words "Bro" meaning country and "Iton" meaning little. The name thus translates to "Little Briton" or "One from Little Britain".

In the 5th century, Celtic Britons migrated from Great Britain across the English Channel to the Armorican peninsula, fleeing the Anglo-Saxon invasions of their homeland. They established a settlement known as Brittany, or Little Britain, preserving their language and culture over the centuries. The name Brittany emerged as a regional identifier during this period.

As an ancient name rooted in this historical migration, Brittany has been documented as early as the 9th century in medieval records and literature from Brittany. One of the earliest known bearers was Brittany, Duchess of Brittany, who ruled the region from 1199 to 1201 during the Breton War of Succession.

Over the subsequent centuries, the name spread gradually beyond its regional confines. A notable bearer was Brittany of Hainault (1200-1244), a French noblewoman and Countess of Flanders. Another was Brittany de Berkeley (1285-1347), an English noblewoman from Gloucestershire.

In the 15th century, Joan Brittany (1480-1537) was a French prostitute who became a famous madam in London's Bankside brothels, famed for her wit and audacity. Much later, Brittany de Villiers (1677-1747) was a prominent French playwright and feminist author during the Age of Enlightenment.

While traditionally associated with its regional origins in northwestern France, the name Brittany has gained broader popularity over time, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Britain. Its charming link to the scenic Brittany region and its historic Celtic roots have contributed to its enduring appeal.