Dolan

Meaning

Derived from the Irish 'Ó Dubhlain', meaning descendant of Dubhlan (dark or black).

Etymology

The surname originates from the Irish Gaelic 'Ó Dubhlain', where 'Ó' denotes 'descendant of' and 'Dubhlan' combines 'dubh' (black/dark) with a diminutive suffix. The anglicized form 'Dolan' represents a phonetic simplification of the Irish original.

About the Dolan Surname

An Irish surname with roots in Gaelic patronymic naming conventions, particularly associated with families from Leinster. The name has spread widely through Irish emigration to North America and other regions.

Distribution

Primarily found in Ireland and Irish diaspora communities worldwide, especially in the United States.

Notable Bearers

Bernadette Dolan (actress), Thomas Dolan (swimmer)

People with the Dolan Surname