The name Tawny has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "tanu," which means "tanned" or "brownish-yellow." This word likely originated from the Proto-Germanic "tanwaz," which meant "made of oak bark," referring to the color of tanned leather.

In the Middle Ages, the name Tawny was used as a descriptive term for someone with a tanned complexion or brownish hair color. It gained popularity as a given name in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly in England and Scotland.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Tawny is found in the 1596 play "The Old Wife's Tale" by George Peele, where a character named Tawny is mentioned. In the 17th century, the name appeared in the records of the Parish Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Tewkesbury, England, where a Tawny Packer was christened in 1642.

Tawny was a relatively uncommon name throughout history, but there are a few notable individuals who bore this name. Tawny Piatt Underhill (1909-1994) was an American writer and editor known for her work on children's literature. Tawny Kitaen (1961-2021) was an American actress and comedian, best known for her appearances in music videos and films in the 1980s.

Tawny Godin (born 1971) is a Canadian painter and visual artist, renowned for her abstract and figurative works. Tawny Cypress (born 1976) is an American actress who has appeared in various television series, including "Heroes" and "Unforgettable."

Another notable bearer of the name was Tawny Little (1916-2008), an American actress and dancer who appeared in several Hollywood films during the 1940s and 1950s.

While the name Tawny has remained relatively rare throughout history, its unique and descriptive nature has lent it a distinctive character. It serves as a reminder of the rich linguistic heritage of the English language and the enduring influence of Old English and Proto-Germanic roots on modern naming traditions.