Donnell Unisex
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
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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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
IL | 7 | |
CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1912 | 7 |
1913 | 10 |
1914 | 11 |
1915 | 15 |
1916 | 7 |
1917 | 22 |
1918 | 15 |
1919 | 15 |
1920 | 15 |
1921 | 27 |
1922 | 17 |
1923 | 23 |
1924 | 22 |
1925 | 22 |
1926 | 32 |
1927 | 24 |
1928 | 32 |
1929 | 30 |
1930 | 41 |
1931 | 36 |
1932 | 36 |
1933 | 23 |
1934 | 39 |
1935 | 38 |
1936 | 40 |
1937 | 37 |
1938 | 34 |
1939 | 36 |
1940 | 42 |
1941 | 56 |
1942 | 55 |
1943 | 41 |
1944 | 50 |
1945 | 50 |
1946 | 62 |
1947 | 76 |
1948 | 85 |
1949 | 90 |
1950 | 143 |
1951 | 134 |
1952 | 150 |
1953 | 162 |
1954 | 150 |
1955 | 171 |
1956 | 205 |
1957 | 195 |
1958 | 217 |
1959 | 209 |
1960 | 225 |
1961 | 205 |
1962 | 263 |
1963 | 214 |
1964 | 241 |
1965 | 213 |
1966 | 219 |
1967 | 244 |
1968 | 248 |
1969 | 254 |
1970 | 271 |
1971 | 268 |
1972 | 238 |
1973 | 256 |
1974 | 265 |
1975 | 269 |
1976 | 254 |
1977 | 227 |
1978 | 205 |
1979 | 249 |
1980 | 271 |
1981 | 260 |
1982 | 290 |
1983 | 218 |
1984 | 259 |
1985 | 217 |
1986 | 206 |
1987 | 220 |
1988 | 239 |
1989 | 249 |
1990 | 239 |
1991 | 207 |
1992 | 203 |
1993 | 195 |
1994 | 197 |
1995 | 171 |
1996 | 165 |
1997 | 159 |
1998 | 131 |
1999 | 135 |
2000 | 149 |
2001 | 155 |
2002 | 123 |
2003 | 107 |
2004 | 134 |
2005 | 110 |
2006 | 139 |
2007 | 135 |
2008 | 125 |
2009 | 79 |
2010 | 105 |
2011 | 75 |
2012 | 88 |
2013 | 82 |
2014 | 89 |
2015 | 78 |
2016 | 75 |
2017 | 51 |
2018 | 60 |
2019 | 34 |
2020 | 46 |
2021 | 29 |
2022 | 32 |
2023 | 23 |
2024 | 22 |