The name Diann is a variant of the name Diana, which has its origins in the ancient Roman civilization. Diana was the Roman goddess of the hunt, the moon, and nature, one of the most revered deities in the Roman pantheon. The name Diana is derived from the Latin word "dius," meaning "divine" or "heavenly."

The earliest recorded use of the name Diann can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, particularly in regions of Italy and France influenced by the Roman Empire's cultural heritage. It is believed that the variant spelling Diann emerged as a way to distinguish the name from the more common Diana while still retaining its connection to the ancient goddess.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Diann was Diann de Poulengy, a 14th-century French noblewoman who played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War between England and France. She was born around 1320 and was known for her support of the French monarchy during the conflict.

In the 16th century, Diann Fenwick, an English religious reformer and Protestant martyr, was born around 1525. She faced persecution for her beliefs and was eventually burned at the stake in 1556 during the reign of Queen Mary I, also known as "Bloody Mary."

Another notable figure with the name Diann was Diann Woodruff, an American actress and dancer born in 1923. She had a successful career on Broadway and in films, appearing in productions such as "Kismet" and "The King and I."

In the field of literature, Diann Wynne Jones, a British writer born in 1934, gained recognition for her contributions to fantasy and children's literature. Her works, including the acclaimed "Howl's Moving Castle" series, have been widely praised and have inspired adaptations in various forms of media.

Diann Farmer, an American tennis player born in 1952, achieved significant success in her professional career. She won numerous Grand Slam titles, including two Wimbledon singles championships, and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2019.

It is important to note that while the name Diann has been present throughout history, it has not been as widely used as its more common counterpart, Diana. Nevertheless, the name Diann holds a unique connection to the ancient Roman goddess and has been carried by notable individuals across various fields and eras.