The name Yancy is a variant of the English name Yancey, which itself is derived from the Old English name Jenkin or Jenkin. The name Jenkin is a diminutive form of the name John, which ultimately traces its roots back to the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious."

The earliest known use of the name Yancey dates back to the 16th century in England. Records show that a man named Yancey Barker was born in 1562 in Gloucestershire, England. The name likely gained popularity due to its association with the more common name John.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Yancy was Yancy Derringer (1720-1792), an American frontiersman and explorer who was known for his adventures in the wilderness of what is now West Virginia and Kentucky. He was born in Pennsylvania and was of English descent.

Another historical figure with the name Yancy was Yancy Cravat (1787-1856), an American politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Ohio. He was born in Virginia and was involved in the early settlement of the Ohio Territory.

In the 19th century, there was a prominent American writer and poet named Yancy Hoyt (1818-1892). He was born in New York and published several collections of poetry and prose works during his lifetime.

Another notable individual with the name Yancy was Yancy Fitzpatrick (1844-1923), an Irish-American businessman and philanthropist who made his fortune in the steel industry. He was born in Ireland and later immigrated to the United States, where he became a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

A more recent historical figure with the name Yancy was Yancy Foster (1892-1971), an American jazz musician and bandleader who was active in the early 20th century. He was born in New Orleans and was known for his contributions to the development of jazz music in the city.