DONNE

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

Donne

Donne is a notable British surname with origins dating back to medieval times. The name is derived from the Old English word dunn, which means "dark" or "swarthy". It is likely that the surname was originally used to describe someone with dark features or complexion.

One of the most famous bearers of the Donne surname was the poet John Donne (1572-1631), who is renowned for his metaphysical poetry. John Donne's literary works are celebrated for their complexity, wit, and exploration of themes such as love, death, and spirituality.

The Donne surname has been prominent throughout British history, with individuals of this name making significant contributions in various fields such as literature, religion, politics, and the arts. The legacy of the Donne family continues to be felt in contemporary British society, with descendants of the original Donne lineage carrying on the family name and heritage.

In conclusion, the Donne surname holds a special place in British history and culture, symbolising literary excellence and intellectual prowess. Its rich legacy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of the Donne family on the cultural landscape of Britain.

There are approximately 500 people named Donne in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Donne.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Wales

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Welsh

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Christopher
David
John
Jonathan
Mark
Michael
Richard
Simon
Timothy
William

Female

Annabel
Carol
Elizabeth
Emma
Gaynor
Jane
Kathleen
Lisa
Lucy
Margaret
Mary
Rachel
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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