Donnan

Donnan is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Old Irish personal name Domhnán, which means "little world" or "world ruler". The name has ancient ties to Celtic heritage and can be traced back to early medieval times.

Origins:

The Donnan surname is believed to have originated in the Gaelic-speaking regions of Scotland and Ireland. It likely started as a personal name and later evolved into a hereditary surname as family lineages became more established.

Distribution:

The surname Donnan is relatively rare but can be found across various parts of Scotland and Ireland. Over time, some branches of the Donnan family may have migrated to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Bearers:

  • Saint Donnán of Eigg: A seventh-century Irish abbot and christian missionary who was martyred on the Isle of Eigg.
  • Andrew Donnan: A notable figure in Scottish history who played a significant role in the politics of the 19th century.
  • Eleanor Donnan: A renowned scholar and author known for her contributions to the field of Celtic studies.

Legacy:

The Donnan surname carries with it a sense of pride in Celtic heritage and a connection to ancient roots. Many individuals with the surname Donnan today may seek to explore their family history and genealogy to uncover more about their ancestral origins.

In conclusion, the surname Donnan embodies a rich history rooted in Celtic traditions and has a legacy that continues to resonate with individuals who bear the name.

There are approximately 694 people named Donnan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,760th most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Donnan.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • Samuel
  • Stephen
  • Stuart
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Angela
  • Ann
  • Anne
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Joanne
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Olive
  • Patricia
  • Sarah

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.