The given name Dusty is a relatively modern name, originating in the late 19th or early 20th century in English-speaking countries. It is believed to have its roots in the word "dust," which comes from the Old English word "dūst." The name was likely inspired by the dusty, earthy environment of rural areas or occupations that involved working with the land.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Dusty can be found in the American West, where it was used as a nickname for cowboys and ranchers who worked in the dusty, dry plains and deserts. The name gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States, as it evoked a sense of ruggedness and a connection to the outdoors.

One of the most famous individuals with the name Dusty was Dusty Springfield, an English pop singer, and record producer who was born Mary Isobel Catherine Bernadette O'Brien in 1939 and died in 1999. She was known for her powerful vocals and hit songs such as "Son of a Preacher Man" and "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me."

Another notable figure with the name Dusty was Dusty Baker, an American professional baseball player and manager. He was born Johnnie B. Baker Jr. in 1949 and played for several Major League Baseball teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants. Baker was also a successful manager, leading teams like the San Francisco Giants and the Cincinnati Reds.

In the world of literature, Dusty was the nickname of the character Dusty Musgrave, a farmer and landowner in the novel "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck, published in 1939. The character's nickname reflected his connection to the dusty, drought-stricken land of the Great Depression era.

Another notable figure with the name Dusty was Dusty Rhodes, an American professional wrestler born Virgil Riley Runnels Jr. in 1945 and passed away in 2015. He was known for his flamboyant persona and his signature move, the "Bionic Elbow."

While less common as a given name, Dusty has also been used as a nickname for individuals with names like Dustin or Dustina, further reinforcing its connection to the concept of dust and the outdoors.