Dòmhnuill

Dòmhnuill is the Scottish Gaelic form of the masculine given name Donald. It is used in Gaelic-speaking Scotland and in Gaelic-language contexts more broadly. The name derives from the Old Irish Domnall, which itself comes from Proto-Celtic roots meaning “world” and “rule” or “power,” commonly interpreted as “ruler of the world” or “world-mighty.” The spelling Dòmhnuill reflects Gaelic orthography, and variants such as Domhnall or Dòmhnall appear in different dialects and records.

In usage, Dòmhnuill is traditionally Anglicised as Donald in English-language contexts; historical forms include Donnell or Donall in English records. In Gaelic, the form remains part of modern naming, appearing in literature, media, and everyday life in Scotland’s Gaelic communities. The name also crosses into Irish Gaelic in its cognate form Domhnall.

Cultural and historical notes: as the Gaelic counterpart of Donald, the name has been borne by figures in Gaelic chronicles and poetry and carries associations of leadership and strength through its etymology, though contemporary use is primarily as a given name without implied meaning beyond personal identity.

See also: Donald (name); Domhnall; Dòmhnaill.