Donelson

Scottish

"proud chief"

Donelson Origin and Meaning

The name Donelson is a boy's name.

Donelson is a masculine name with Scottish and English origins, historically used as a surname meaning 'son of Donald.' Donald itself derives from the Gaelic elements 'dubh' meaning 'dark' and 'val' meaning 'ruler,' so Donelson essentially means 'son of the dark ruler.' The name carries a distinguished, traditional quality with its classic 'son' suffix pattern common in Scandinavian and Scottish naming traditions. As a given name, Donelson remains quite rare, making it a distinctive choice. It may appeal to families with Scottish heritage or those looking to honor an ancestor named Donald while using a less common variation. The name also has historical significance in American place names, including Donelson, Tennessee.

Famous People Named Donelson

• Donelson Caffery U.S. Senator from Louisiana
• Donelson Farquhar Hoopes American art curator