The distinction between these is perfectly established now: by the first we always intend Great Britain; by the second, the French duchy, corresponding to the ancient Armorica. But it was long before this usage was accurately settled and accepted by all. By ‘Britany’ Great Britain was frequently intended, and vice versâ. Thus, in each of the passages which follow, the other word than that which actually is used would be now employed.
He [Henry VII.] was not so averse from a war, but that he was resolved to choose it, rather than to have Britain carried by France, being so great and opulent a duchy, and situate so opportunely to annoy England, either for coast or trade.—Bacon, History of King Henry VII.
The letter of Quintus Cicero, which he wrote in answer to that of his brother Marcus, desiring of him an account of Britany.—Sir T. Browne, Musæum Clausum.
And is it this, alas! which we
(O irony of words!) do call Great Britany?
Cowley, The Extasy.
Brook. This, the O.E. brūcan (cp. German brauchen), has now obtained a special limitation, meaning not so much, as once it did, to use, as to endure to use.
But none of all those curses overtooke
The warlike Maide, th’ ensample of that might;
But fairely well she thryvd, and well did brooke