The name Vianey is derived from the Latin name Vianeius, which itself may have originated from the Roman family name Viannius. The name seems to have its roots in ancient Rome, though its exact etymology is unclear.

Vianey was relatively uncommon as a given name until the Middle Ages, when it gained popularity across parts of Europe, particularly in regions like France and Spain. It may have been inspired by the veneration of Saint Vianeius, a 6th century hermit and monk from Burgundy, France.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Vianey can be traced back to Juan Vianey, a 13th century Spanish nobleman and military leader who fought in the Reconquista against the Moors. In the 15th century, there was a French scholar and theologian named Jacques Vianey who wrote extensively on biblical exegesis.

Perhaps the most famous bearer of the name was Saint John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, who lived from 1786 to 1859 in France. Known as the Curé d'Ars, he was renowned for his pastoral work and was canonized in 1925.

Other notable individuals named Vianey include Vianey Rodriguez, a 20th century Mexican actress and singer born in 1939, and Vianey Lazaro, a contemporary Spanish artist and sculptor born in 1977. In literature, there is a character named Vianey in the 1934 novel "The Comforters" by Scottish writer Muriel Spark.

Historically, the name Vianey has been more commonly used in Catholic regions of Europe, potentially due to the influence of Saint John Vianney and other religious figures. However, it has also been adopted in various forms across different cultures and languages over time.