What Is a Nittany Lion? Details on the Penn State Mascot

As far as the Nittany part goes, well, that’s up for debate.

Per Penn State, “Many say it comes from a Native American word meaning ‘single mountain.’ Others say it’s named after a legendary Native American woman said to be from this area.” Oh no, more appropriation!

The word Nittany is now all over the Penn State area, including on a mountain. Yes, Mount Nittany is a thing you can visit or hike when you’re not watching a game at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium. Wait, why is it Beaver Stadium? We give up.

Source: https://www.distractify.com/p/what-is-a-nittany-lion