Dougal

Dougal is a masculine given name of Scottish Gaelic origin. It derives from the Gaelic Dubhghall, meaning "dark stranger" or "black foreigner." The name has several historical Gaelic forms, including Dugald and Dugall, and it is sometimes presented as a variant of the longer name Dugald rather than as a direct form of Douglas. In English-speaking contexts, Dougal is used as a standalone given name, sometimes as a familiar or pet form of related names.

Dougal has been used primarily in Scotland and Ireland but has since appeared in broader English-language usage, aided by literary and media portrayals. Its use has varied in popularity over time but remains recognizable in modern times.

Notable people with the given name include Dougal Haston (1933–1977), a Scottish mountaineer whose achievements contributed to postwar British alpinism.

In popular culture, Dougal is the name of the dog in the original English version of the children's television series The Magic Roundabout, and it has appeared in various adaptations. The name also appears in other fictional works and is encountered as a first name in real life.