Dougherty

Irish

"not loving"

Dougherty Origin and Meaning

The name Dougherty is a boy's name.

Dougherty is a masculine name that originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic "Ó Dochartaigh" meaning "descendant of Dochartach," with Dochartach being a personal name meaning "hurtful" or "obstructive." The clan Ó Dochartaigh was a powerful family in County Donegal, Ireland. As a first name, Dougherty represents the growing trend of using surnames as given names, particularly those with strong cultural and familial connections. While uncommon as a first name, it offers parents a distinctive option with clear Irish heritage. The name carries a strong, traditional sound and might be chosen to honor family history or Irish ancestry, though it remains quite rare in comparison to other Irish-derived names.