Donovan
“descendant of Donndubhán, 'dark brown-haired chief'”
The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Is Donovan an Irish name?
Donovan is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Donnabháin.
What does the surname Donovan mean?
Donovan (Irish: Ó Donnabháin) means “descendant of Donndubhán, 'dark brown-haired chief'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.
Where in Ireland is the surname Donovan from?
The historic homeland of the Donovan name is Cork, Limerick. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Donovan?
Ó Donnabháin. Related spellings: O'Donovan.
Looking for the Donovan family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Donovan ancestors? The step-by-step guide.
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