Meaning, origin, history
Dunn is an uncommon given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Donnain, which means "descendant of Donnán." Donnán was a personal name meaning "little dark one," referring to someone with dark hair or complexion.
The name Dunn has a long history in Ireland and Scotland. In Ireland, it was originally a sept name, meaning that it was associated with a particular clan or family group. The Ó Donnain clan was located in County Kerry, and some members of this clan later migrated to Scotland.
In Scotland, the name Dunn is often found as a first name rather than a surname. It is believed to have been brought over by Irish immigrants who settled in the country. Today, Dunn is still more commonly used as a surname than a given name, but it can be found in both forms in Ireland and Scotland.
Despite its rarity as a given name, Dunn has a unique and interesting history that spans centuries and national borders. Its meaning and origin make it a appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Dunn since 1880
Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1929
5 births
in 1929
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years