The first written mention of Bryansk is in 1146, in the Hypatian Codex, as Debryansk.

Its name is derived from a Slavic word for "ditch", "lowland" or "dense woodland"; the area is known for its dense woods, of which very little remains today.

Local authorities and archaeologists, however, believe that the town had existed as early as 985 as a fortified settlement on the right bank of the Desna River.

Bryansk is today an important center for steel and machinery manufacturing, and is home to many large factories.