Donnell

♂ Boy

Donnell Pronunciation

Donnell is pronounced də-NEL /dəˈnɛl/High

Meaning: From Irish Domhnall/Donal — 'world-ruler, mighty chief' (domun, 'world', plus val, 'rule')Medium

In 30 seconds: World-ruler and strong: Donnell is the Irish Donal — 'mighty chief, world-ruler'. Classic, bold, and warm.

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Origin MediumIrish

MeaningFrom Irish Domhnall/Donal — 'world-ruler, mighty chief' (domun, 'world', plus val, 'rule')

U.S. rank (2024)#4586 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births22 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1982

Total births (all-time)≈ 14,253

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Donnell comes from Irish Domhnall/Donal — 'world-ruler, mighty chief' (domun, 'world', plus val, 'rule'; the root of Donald). A classic, strong name (the surname O'Donnell), well-used in African American communities.

It registers thinly today. Rare now, world-ruler at the root, and bold.

Did you know? Donnell comes from Irish Domhnall/Donal, 'world-ruler, mighty chief' (the root of Donald) — a classic, bold name, popular in African American families too.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Donald — root etymology

Variations

DonalDonaldDonnel

Nicknames

Don

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Donnell…

Donald— a fellow Don- name

Darnell— a companion -ell name

Cornell— another -ell name

Niall— shares the -ll ending

Connell— echoes that soft -ll sound

→ See all names like Donnell

Browse the whole category: All Irish names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Donnell?

Donnell is pronounced də-NEL (/dəˈnɛl/). Press play above to hear Donnell said aloud.

How do you say Donnell?

Donnell is said də-NEL (/dəˈnɛl/). Press play above to hear Donnell said aloud.

What does the name Donnell mean?

Donnell is Irish for 'world-ruler, mighty chief'.

Is Donnell a boy or girl name?

Donnell is a boy's name.

How popular is Donnell?

Donnell is a rare name in the U.S. today.