Meaning, origin, history
The name Donn is of Irish origin and has a rich history behind it. It is derived from the Old Irish word "don," which means "brown" or "chestnut." This name was originally associated with a legendary Irish god known as Donn, who was believed to be the god of death and the underworld.
According to Celtic mythology, Donn was said to have lived on an island off the coast of Ireland called Tech Duinn, which translates to "House of Donn." He was often depicted as a giant with a dark complexion, reflecting his association with storms and darkness. It was believed that Donn would carry the souls of the dead across the sea to the otherworld, where they would be judged for their deeds in life.
The name Donn has been used as a given name in Ireland for centuries, but it became more popular during the 19th century as part of the Irish Celtic Revival movement. Today, Donn remains a relatively uncommon but distinctive name that carries with it a sense of history and mystique rooted in ancient Irish folklore.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Donn since 1880
Total births
6,548
Total since 1880
Peak year
1949
341 births
in 2023
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-19%
↘
vs previous 5 years