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Doran Boy

Popularity: #915 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationDOH-ran / /ˈdɔːrən/

Irish; Hebrew

Meaning

Irish: 'stranger'; Hebrew: 'gift'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Doran has its roots in the Irish language, derived from the Gaelic "O'Dubhrain," which means "descendant of Dubhrán." The name Dubhrán itself is derived from the word "dubh," meaning "black" or "dark," combined with a diminutive suffix, suggesting a meaning akin to "little dark one." This etymological journey reflects the linguistic evolution from Old Irish to modern Irish, and eventually into English, where it was adopted as a given name.

Historically, the name Doran can be traced back to various figures in Irish history, particularly during the medieval period when surnames began to be established. The O'Dubhrain clan was prominent in the regions of Connacht, and members of this lineage were noted in various historical records. The name gained further recognition through its association with notable individuals and families in Irish folklore and history, contributing to its endurance over the centuries.

Culturally, the name Doran carries connotations of strength and resilience, often associated with the characteristics of its Gaelic roots. In Irish tradition, names derived from physical attributes or characteristics were common, and the name Doran fits within this framework, symbolizing a connection to heritage and identity. Additionally, the name has been used in various literary and artistic contexts, further embedding it within the cultural fabric of Ireland. While diminutive forms such as "Dory" may exist, the name Doran itself has maintained a distinct identity throughout its historical journey.

Trend Summary

The name Doran has seen limited use in the United States, maintaining a low but steady presence.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Dorran

International Variants

  • Doran (Irish)
  • Doran (Hebrew)

Famous people named Doran

Doran O'Driscoll is a musician best known for his work with the band The Clancy Brothers.

Doran C. is a writer best known for his contributions to various literary magazines and anthologies.

Fictional characters named Doran

Doran is a fictional character from the video game series Dragon Age. He is a member of the Grey Wardens and plays a significant role in the story of Dragon Age: Inquisition.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Doran was first seen in the United States in 1912. Doran has ranked as high as #1014 nationally, which occurred in 1954, and has been most popular in California, Iowa, Michigan, New York, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Doran has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Doran (2013)

StateBirthsShare
TX 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19126
191314
191412
191514
191623
191717
191815
191924
192012
192119
192221
192325
192421
192522
192620
192726
192821
192922
193029
193135
193225
193320
193420
193525
193617
193718
193819
193916
194019
194119
194225
194315
194415
194527
194641
194732
194828
194928
195039
195134
195241
195339
195450
195549
195645
195736
195839
195938
196024
196145
196241
196348
196445
196544
196630
196739
196829
196928
197036
197143
197228
197331
197428
197524
197622
197717
197822
197918
198021
198124
198219
198324
198423
198518
198614
198720
198826
198925
199024
199117
199224
199327
199424
199540
199620
199721
199817
199925
200021
200121
200226
200320
200424
200521
200612
200714
200817
20098
201016
201111
201214
201315
201413
20157
201614
201711
20187
20198
20207
20215
20227
20236
20249