Donoghue

Donoghue is a noble Irish surname originating from the Gaelic Ó Donnchadha, meaning "son of Donnchadh". The name is derived from a personal name composed of the elements "donn", meaning "brown" or "chief", and "cath", meaning "battle". The Donoghue family can trace its roots back to ancient Irish clans and is associated with the counties of Cork, Clare, and Galway.

The Donoghue surname has various spellings, including Donohoe, Donaghy, and Donahue. Throughout history, the Donoghue family has been prominent in Ireland, with some members achieving notable positions in society. The Donoghue name has also spread beyond Ireland, particularly to regions like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

The name gained further recognition through literature, notably in the 20th century. Author Emma Donoghue, known for her acclaimed novel "Room", has brought the name Donoghue to a wider audience and contributed to its cultural significance.

The Donoghue family crest features a design of a silver sword with a gold hilt atop a red shield, symbolising strength, courage, and heritage. The motto "Sola Virtus Nobilitat" translates to "Virtue Alone Ennobles", reflecting the family's values.

The Donoghue surname remains a proud symbol of Irish heritage and identity, with its bearers continuing to uphold its legacy through generations.

There are approximately 5,229 people named Donoghue in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,812th most common surname in Britain. Around 80 in a million people in Britain are named Donoghue.

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
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Anne
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

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