The name Jocelynn has its origins in the medieval French language. It is a variant spelling of the name Jocelyn, which is a feminine form of the masculine name Joscelin. The name Joscelin is derived from the Germanic name Goscelin, which is a compound of the elements "gos" meaning "god" and "lind" meaning "gentle" or "soft."

The earliest recorded use of the name Jocelynn can be traced back to the 12th century in France. During this time, the name was primarily used by nobles and aristocrats. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Jocelynn de Courtenay, a French noblewoman who lived in the late 12th century.

In the 13th century, the name Jocelynn gained popularity among the English nobility. One notable figure from this period was Jocelynn de Braose, a Welsh noblewoman who played a prominent role in the conflicts between King John and his barons.

During the Renaissance period, the name Jocelynn was associated with literary figures and artists. One notable bearer of the name was Jocelynn Sandys, an English poet and translator who lived in the 16th century.

In the 17th century, the name Jocelynn was used by Puritans in England and the American colonies. One notable figure from this period was Jocelynn Bray, an English Puritan minister who was active in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1630s.

Another notable bearer of the name Jocelynn was Jocelynn Fell, an English Quaker and writer who lived in the 17th century. She was known for her advocacy of women's rights and her support for religious tolerance.

As the name Jocelynn spread across different cultures and regions, various spellings and variations emerged, such as Jocelyn, Joscelyn, and Josselyn. However, the name remained relatively rare until the late 20th century when it experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in English-speaking countries.