Donnell

Donnell is a name that appears both as a surname and as a masculine given name. In its surname form, it is often linked to Irish origins; in given-name use it is found in several English-speaking countries.

Etymology and meaning: Donnell derives from the Gaelic Domhnall, which is typically translated as "world ruler" or "ruler of the world." The spelling Donnell represents an Anglicized variant of the same root. The name is related to other forms such as Donald, Donnell, and, in some contexts, to surnames that trace to the clan or family-name tradition in Ireland and Scotland.

Usage and distribution: As a surname, Donnell is encountered in Ireland and among diaspora communities worldwide, especially in North America. As a given name, Donnell has appeared in the United States and other English-speaking regions, often adopted through surname-to-given-name patterns or family naming practices. The name is used for males and is occasionally found in popular culture and media.

Notable people: There are individuals with the surname or given name Donnell across various fields, including sports, politics, and the arts. The name does not point to a single prominent lineage or figure and is carried by diverse people in different regions.

Related names and see also: Donnell is closely related to Domhnall, Donald, and other Anglicized Irish forms. It is sometimes discussed in relation to O’Donnell and Donnelly, which are etymologically connected but historically distinct surnames.