Durnan

Durnan is a surname of Scottish origin, prevalent in the British Isles. The etymology of the name can be traced back to the Old Gaelic name 'MacDhomhnuill' which means 'son of Donald'. The surname Durnan is linked to the Scottish clan Donald, which holds a storied history in Scotland.

Origins and Distribution

The Durnan surname is most commonly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with some presence in England. The name is concentrated in areas with historical Scottish settlements, reflecting the ancestry of the bearers.

Notable Individuals

- John Durnan: A prominent Scottish landowner in the 18th century known for his contributions to agriculture.

- Mary Durnan: An acclaimed Northern Irish author, famous for her works on local folklore and traditions.

Coat of Arms

The Durnan family crest features distinctive elements such as a shield with a lion rampant, signifying courage and strength. The crest is often accompanied by the motto "Audaciter et Strenue," which translates to "Boldly and Vigorously," reflecting the characteristics associated with the bearers of the name.

Legacy

The surname Durnan has a rich heritage in the British Isles, with notable figures contributing to various fields. The name continues to be passed down through generations, keeping alive the legacy of the Scottish clan Donald.

There are approximately 330 people named Durnan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Durnan.

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

  • Colin
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Laurence
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Adele
  • Alison
  • Ann
  • Christine
  • Doreen
  • Heather
  • Lisa
  • Lucy
  • Margaret
  • Marie
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • 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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