Whitnee is a rare spelling of the name Whitney. The name is pronounced as /ˈwɪtni/, with the stress on the first syllable. The phonetic transcription provides a clear understanding of the pronunciation. The first sound, /w/, is produced by rounding the lips and making a voiceless sound. The second sound, /ɪ/, is like the sound we make in the word "pit." The last sound, /ni/, comprises the sound of "n" and "ee" in "tree." Therefore, the correct pronunciation of Whitnee is "WIT-nee."
The name "Whitnee" appears to be a variant spelling of the name "Whitney". The etymology of "Whitney" can be traced back to Old English roots. It is derived from the Old English words "hwīt" (meaning "white") and "ēg" (meaning "island" or "place"). Thus, "Whitney" can be interpreted as "white island" or "white place". It was originally a surname that denoted someone who lived near a white island or a particularly light or bright area. Over time, "Whitney" has also become a given name for both males and females. However, the specific origins and meaning of the variant spelling "Whitnee" may require further research as it may have evolved in a particular region or have personal origins.