Whitney is a female given name of English origin. It is derived from the surname Whitney, which is of English and Scottish origin. The surname Whitney comes from the Middle English word "wit" meaning "wise" or "knowledgeable," combined with the suffix "-ley" which denotes an association or place.
The name Whitney has been in use since the 19th century but gained popularity during the mid-20th century. It is often used as a middle name, such as Whitney Houston, the renowned American singer and actress. Although it is not one of the most popular names, it is still recognized and used today.
In terms of meaning, Whittney does not have a specific definition like many other names. However, its origin suggests that it may evoke intelligence or wisdom. Ultimately, the significance of Whittney will depend on the individual who bears the name and how they choose to define themselves.
The name Whittney saw a significant rise in popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s, peaking with 151 births in 1986 and 149 in 1987. However, it experienced a steady decline afterwards, with only 7 births recorded each year from 2012 to 2013. In total, there were 1633 births named Whittney between 1979 and 2013.