Donal

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Donal

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation doh-nuhl

Donal, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Donal

World leader

Donal is an Irish name derived from the Gaelic name Domhnall, meaning "world ruler" or "world mighty".

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Meaning World leader
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #993 in 1952 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1930s)

Background & History of The Name Donal

The name 'Donal' is derived from the Irish Gaelic name 'Domhnall', which means 'ruler of the world' or 'world mighty'. It is a masculine name and is pronounced as 'DAW-nəl'. Donal is a variant of the more popular name Donald, which gained popularity in Scotland and Ireland during the medieval period.

The name Donal has a rich history and is associated with various notable figures. In Irish mythology, Donal is linked to 'Donal of the Fleet', a mythical hero who was renowned for his exceptional skill in sailing and navigation. In addition, several prominent historical figures have held the name Donal. Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare was a Gaelic lord who fought against the English during the Nine Years' War in Ireland.

The popularity of the name Donal has varied over time and across different regions. It gained significant popularity in Ireland in the early 20th century but declined in usage in subsequent decades. Today, Donal remains a less common name but is still cherished by those who appreciate its distinctive Celtic charm.

People named Donal are often described as confident, determined, and ambitious. They possess strong leadership qualities and have a natural ability to influence others. Donal is known for being intelligent and having a thirst for knowledge. Individuals with this name are usually optimistic and have a positive outlook on life. They are passionate about their interests and are often driven to succeed in their chosen endeavors.

In summary, the name Donal is deeply rooted in Irish history and mythology. It carries connotations of power and authority, while individuals with this name often exhibit traits of leadership and ambition. Despite being less common today, the name Donal retains its unique appeal and continues to be a choice of pride for those seeking a name with rich Irish heritage.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Donal over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Donal.

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