The name Jody is a diminutive form of the name Jodocus, which is derived from the Germanic name Jodok. The name Jodok is itself a variant of the name Judocus, which has its roots in the Late Latin name Iudocus, a Latinized form of the Breton name Judual or Judvael. This Breton name is composed of the elements "iud" meaning "lord" and "ual" meaning "ruler."

The name Jodocus was relatively common during the Middle Ages, particularly in areas with strong Germanic or Breton influences. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name comes from the 7th century, when Saint Jodocus (or Judocus) lived in the region that is now Belgium. He was a Breton prince who later became a hermit and is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church.

In the 13th century, a theologian and philosopher named Jodocus Trutfetter (c. 1260 – c. 1335) made significant contributions to the development of scholastic philosophy. He was born in Eisenach, Germany, and was a member of the Franciscan order.

Another notable figure with the name Jodocus was Jodocus Badius Ascensius (1462 – 1535), a French scholar, printer, and publisher who played a significant role in the dissemination of classical literature during the Renaissance. He was born in Ghent, which was then part of the Burgundian Netherlands.

In the 16th century, the Dutch painter Jodocus van Winghe (c. 1542 – 1603) was known for his intricate and detailed still-life paintings. He was born in Brussels and worked in the Flemish Renaissance style.

The name Jody emerged as a diminutive form of Jodocus, particularly in English-speaking regions. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Jody comes from the 18th century, when Jody Powell (1784 – 1849), an American politician and lawyer from Virginia, was born.