The term "Nittany" originates from the Algonquian word "Nit-A-Nee," which means "single mountain" or "wind breaker." It refers to Mount Nittany, a prominent ridge near Pennsylvania State University in central Pennsylvania

. According to local folklore, "Nit-A-Nee" is also the name of a Native American maiden whose actions led to the formation of Mount Nittany

. The "Nittany Lion" is the mascot of Pennsylvania State University and represents the eastern mountain lion or cougar that once roamed the area until the late 19th century

. The mascot was created in 1904 by a Penn State student who wanted a symbol to rival other universities' mascots, and it has since become a powerful emblem of the university's spirit and tradition

. In summary, "Nittany" means "single mountain" and is closely tied to Mount Nittany and the Nittany Lion mascot, symbolizing both a geographic feature and a historic animal native to the region