Donovan
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What does the baby name Donovan mean? Learn about what Donovan means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Donovan - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Donovan
- D-O-N-O-V-A-N, is a 7-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Donovan
- DAHN-ə-vin
- DON ah ven
- Meaning of Donovan
- Dark warrior, brown black, son of the dark one.
- Origin of Donovan
- The name 'Donovan' has Irish origins. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Donnabháin, which means 'descendant of Donnabhán'. The name Donnabhán itself is a combination of the Gaelic words donn, meaning 'brown' or 'dark', and ban, meaning 'fair' or 'white'. The name 'Donovan' can be interpreted as 'descendant of the dark-haired one with fair complexion'.
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- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Donovan
- Donavan
- Donevin
- Donovon
- Popularity of Donovan
- The popularity of the name 'Donovan' has varied over time. In the United States, it gained attention in the mid-20th century and experienced its peak popularity in the 1990s. Since then, its usage has gradually declined, but it remains a recognizable and well-liked name.
- Donovan currently has 207 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Chance is slightly more popular than Donovan.
Etymology of Donovan
The etymology of the name 'Donovan' can be traced back to its Irish roots. The Gaelic word donn, meaning 'brown' or 'dark', refers to the hair color or complexion of an individual. The word ban, meaning 'fair' or 'white', signifies a fair or light complexion. When combined, these elements create the meaning of the name 'Donovan'.
Cultural Significance of Donovan
In Irish culture, names often carry cultural and historical significance. The name 'Donovan' reflects the blending of different physical characteristics, with 'dark' and 'fair' coming together. It represents the diversity and complexity of Irish heritage.