Donan

Donan Origin and Meaning

The name Donan is a boy's name.

Donan is a masculine name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic connections. It likely derives from the Gaelic elements 'donn' meaning brown or noble, possibly functioning as a diminutive form. The name may also connect to Saint Donnan, a 7th-century Irish missionary who was martyred on the Isle of Eigg in Scotland. The island of Eilean Donan in Scotland, site of the famous castle, shares linguistic roots with this name. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Donan has maintained quiet usage in Celtic regions and diaspora communities. The name provides a strong consonant structure with a traditional feel, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth and Celtic heritage. Donan offers a distinctive alternative to more common Celtic-origin names.