Donnellan Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

The surname Donnellan is of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Donnallain" or "Ó Domhnalláin," meaning "descendant of Domhnallán."
The personal name "Domhnallán" itself is derived from "Domhnall," which is composed of the elements "domhan," meaning "world" or "universe," and "all," meaning "ruler" or "mighty." It can be translated as "world ruler" or "ruler of the universe."
The Donnellan family history indicates that they were originally a sept (an extended family or clan) associated with the Uí Maine, a group of tribes located in the western part of Ireland. They were primarily centered in County Galway, although some members of the family also settled in County Clare. The clan was known for its connection to the O'Kellys, another prominent Gaelic Irish family.
Over the years, the Donnellans spread throughout Ireland and even migrated to other countries, particularly the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Today, individuals with the surname Donnellan can be found worldwide, and many are proud of their Irish heritage.

1. Donnellan is an Irish surname and is derived from the Gaelic name O'Domhnallain, meaning "descendant of Domhnallán." Domhnallán is a diminutive form of the personal name Domhnall, which means "world ruler" or "mighty ruler."
2. The Donnellan surname is primarily found in the western counties of Ireland, especially Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon.
3. The Donnellan family has a long history in Ireland and can trace their roots back to ancient Gaelic nobility. They were originally part of the leading septs of Ui Fiachrach Aidhne, a territory in present-day County Galway.
4. The Donnellan surname is often associated with County Galway, where they held significant land holdings and positions of influence.
5. The Donnellans were known for their involvement in Gaelic poetry and verse and were considered to be skilled bards and musicians.
6. The earliest recorded mention of the Donnellan surname dates back to the 16th century in County Galway. They were noted as being a powerful and influential family in the region.
7. Over time, variations of the Donnellan surname have emerged, including O'Donelan, Dunican, and Donlon.
8. Many Donnellans emigrated from Ireland during the 19th century due to the Great Famine and economic hardships. They settled in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
9. Today, the Donnellan surname is relatively rare in Ireland, with fewer than 1,000 individuals listed with the surname in recent census data.
10. The Donnellan name continues to be associated with Irish culture and heritage, and many individuals with this surname take pride in their ancestral roots.

The Donnellan Family is from Ireland.

1. Richard Donnellan - Irish rugby union player
2. Peter Donnellan - Australian rules football coach
3. Imelda Donnellan - Irish actress
4. Kevin Donnellan - American soccer player
5. Jack Donnellan - Australian rules football player
6. Dylan Donnellan - Irish actor
7. Rebecca Donnellan - Irish actress
8. Brian Donnellan - Irish hurler
9. Siofra Donnellan - Irish camogie player
10. Peter Donnellan - Irish Gaelic football player