The name Dorothy has its origins in the Greek language and dates back to ancient times. It is derived from the Greek words "doron" meaning "gift" and "theos" meaning "god," thus translating to "gift of God." The name was initially a compound word "Dorothea" in Greek before evolving into the shorter form Dorothy.

In ancient Greek mythology, one of the daughters of the sea god Nereus was named Dorothea. This could be one of the earliest references to the name. The name was also borne by several early Christian martyrs, including Saint Dorothy of Caesarea, who was martyred in the 4th century AD during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

The name Dorothy gained popularity in medieval Europe, particularly in England and France. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name dates back to the 12th century, when a woman named Dorothy de Sempringham founded the Order of Sempringham, a monastic order in England.

Throughout history, several notable women have borne the name Dorothy. One of the most famous was Dorothy Wordsworth (1771-1855), the sister of the celebrated English Romantic poet William Wordsworth. She was an author and diarist, and her journals provided valuable insights into the lives of the Romantic poets.

Another famous Dorothy was Dorothy L. Sayers (1893-1957), an English crime writer and playwright. She is best known for her series of detective novels featuring the character Lord Peter Wimsey. Her works are considered classics of the golden age of detective fiction.

Dorothy Parker (1893-1967) was an American writer, poet, and satirist, renowned for her wit and sharp tongue. She was a founding member of the Algonquin Round Table, a celebrated group of writers and critics in New York City during the 1920s.

Dorothy Day (1897-1980) was an American journalist, social activist, and devout Catholic convert. She co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement, a pacifist movement dedicated to promoting social justice and nonviolence. Her cause for canonization as a saint is currently under consideration by the Catholic Church.

In the realm of popular culture, one of the most iconic Dorothys is the character Dorothy Gale from the classic novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum, published in 1900. The character's adventures in the Land of Oz have captivated generations of readers and viewers through numerous adaptations, including the beloved 1939 film starring Judy Garland.