DONN

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Donn

Donn is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word 'donn,' meaning brown. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone with brown hair, eyes, or complexion.

Origins

The Donn surname's Scottish roots can be traced back to the Lowlands and Highlands regions, where it was adopted by various clans and families. In Ireland, the name is associated with the region of Cork, stemming from the Gaelic O'Duinn or O'Donn versions.

Notable Individuals

John Donn (1572–1631): An English poet and cleric known for his intense and sensual style of poetry.
Elizabet Hester Donn (1701– -?): An English artist known for her beautiful botanical illustrations.
Michael Donn: British architect renowned for his innovative designs in sustainable architecture.

Modern Distribution

Currently, the Donn surname is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other English-speaking countries. Due to global migration, members of the Donn family can be found around the world.

Trivia

The name Donn is often linked to attributes like strength, reliability, and earthiness due to its association with the colour brown in Gaelic culture.

There are approximately 635 people named Donn in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around ten in a million people in Britain are named Donn.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Alan
Andrew
Brian
David
Gary
Ian
James
Magnus
Matthew
Michael
Richard
Robert

Female

Angela
Carol
Diane
Fiona
Heather
Jacqueline
Jane
Jennifer
Julie
Kelly
Margaret
Mary
Michelle
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.