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Donnell Unisex

Popularity: #902 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationDAWN-el / /ˈdɒn.əl/

Irish; Scottish

Meaning

Irish: world mighty; Scottish: ruler

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Donnell has its roots in the Gaelic language, specifically deriving from the Old Irish name "Domhnall," which is composed of two elements: "domhan," meaning "world," and "all," meaning "mighty" or "ruler." This etymology suggests a literal interpretation of "world ruler" or "mighty ruler of the world." The name transitioned into various forms as it spread through different regions and languages, eventually becoming Donnell in English through the influence of the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century, which facilitated the integration of Gaelic names into English-speaking contexts.

Historically, the name Donnell has been borne by notable figures, particularly in Irish history. One prominent example is Domhnall, the son of the 10th-century King of Tara, who is often associated with the establishment of the Gaelic order of kingship in Ireland. The name also appears in various historical texts and genealogies, reflecting its significance in the lineage of Irish nobility. Additionally, the name has been linked to several saints, including Saint Donall, who contributed to the name's religious and cultural resonance in medieval Ireland.

Culturally, Donnell has been associated with strength and leadership, qualities that have contributed to its enduring presence in Irish and Anglo-Irish heritage. The name has been celebrated in folklore and literature, often symbolizing valor and nobility. Variants and diminutives of Donnell, such as Donal and Donny, have also emerged, further enriching its cultural tapestry. Overall, the name Donnell encapsulates a rich historical narrative that reflects the interplay of language, culture, and identity in the Irish context.

Trend Summary

Donnell has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable presence in the 20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Donal
  • Donnelly

International Variants

  • Donal (Irish)
  • Donnel (Irish)
  • Donaldo (Spanish)

Famous people named Donnell

Donnell Rawlings is a comedian and actor best known for Chappelle's Show, The Wire, and The Last O.G..

Donnell Jones is a singer-songwriter best known for his albums Where I Wanna Be, Life Goes On, and Journey of a Gemini.

Fictional characters named Donnell

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Donnell was first seen in the United States in 1912. Donnell has ranked as high as #862 nationally, which occurred in 1982, and has been most popular in New York, Illinois, California, Maryland, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Donnell has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Donnell (2020)

StateBirthsShare
IL 7
58%
CA 5
42%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19127
191310
191411
191515
19167
191722
191815
191915
192015
192127
192217
192323
192422
192522
192632
192724
192832
192930
193041
193136
193236
193323
193439
193538
193640
193737
193834
193936
194042
194156
194255
194341
194450
194550
194662
194776
194885
194990
1950143
1951134
1952150
1953162
1954150
1955171
1956205
1957195
1958217
1959209
1960225
1961205
1962263
1963214
1964241
1965213
1966219
1967244
1968248
1969254
1970271
1971268
1972238
1973256
1974265
1975269
1976254
1977227
1978205
1979249
1980271
1981260
1982290
1983218
1984259
1985217
1986206
1987220
1988239
1989249
1990239
1991207
1992203
1993195
1994197
1995171
1996165
1997159
1998131
1999135
2000149
2001155
2002123
2003107
2004134
2005110
2006139
2007135
2008125
200979
2010105
201175
201288
201382
201489
201578
201675
201751
201860
201934
202046
202129
202232
202323
202422