Mitty, of Germanic origin, is a unique and historic given name. It is derived from the Middle German word 'miti', meaning 'friend'. The name gained prominence through popular usage in the late 19th to early 20th centuries but has since become quite rare. Notable bearers include Mitty Harris, an American football player, and Mitty Alva, a Canadian actress known for her role in the television series "The L Word".
The name Mitty is not particularly popular in the United States, with only five babies given this name annually in 1941. This figure represents the total number of births for that year alone. Despite its rarity, this unique moniker has been chosen by parents for their children at least once every year since then. While it may not be as common as more traditional names like John or Emily, Mitty holds a special place among those who bear it and their families. The name's uniqueness can even serve as a conversation starter or a way to stand out from the crowd.