The name Scott has its origins in the late Latin word "Scoticus" which means "from Scotia". Scotia was the Latin term used to refer to parts of modern-day Scotland and Ireland. The name emerged during the Middle Ages, around the 11th or 12th centuries.

Scott was originally an ethnic name given to people from Scotland or of Scottish descent. As surnames became more common in medieval Europe, Scott evolved into a surname as well as a given name. The earliest recorded instances of the name Scott as a first name appear in medieval Scottish records and charters.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name was William Scott, a Scottish nobleman who lived in the late 12th century. He was a witness to several royal charters issued by King William the Lion of Scotland. Another early bearer was Reginald Scott, a Scottish philosopher and scholar who lived in the 13th century.

In the 14th century, Sir Michael Scott (c. 1175 - c. 1232) was a renowned Scottish scholar, mathematician, and alleged wizard. He was a figure of legend and folklore, appearing in various medieval literature and stories. Another notable Scott from this era was John Scott (c. 1301 - 1355), a Scottish soldier who fought in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

During the Renaissance, William Scott (1515 - 1594) was a Scottish poet and author who served as a courtier to King James VI of Scotland. In the 17th century, James Scott (1649 - 1685), the Duke of Monmouth, was an illegitimate son of King Charles II of England and a prominent military leader.

Moving into the 18th century, Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832) was a prolific Scottish novelist, poet, and playwright, celebrated for his historical novels and contributions to the Romantic movement. Another famous bearer was Robert Falcon Scott (1868 - 1912), a British naval officer and explorer who led two expeditions to the Antarctic.