How common is the Donald surname?

There are approximately 150,000 people with the surname Donald in the United States.

Are there Donald soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 849 soldiers with the Donald surname appear in Civil War records.

Donald

Q: What does the surname Donald mean?

The surname Donald means "Derived from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall, meaning 'world ruler' or 'world mighty'.". It is of Scottish or Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall, meaning 'world ruler' or 'world mighty'.

Etymology

The surname originates from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall, combining 'domh' (world) with 'all' (mighty/ruler), with the '-d' ending indicating a patronymic form. The name was particularly common in Scotland and the Scottish Highlands.

About the Donald Surname

A Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall, historically associated with Highland clans. The name has become widespread internationally through Scottish diaspora and popular culture.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 150,000 bearers in the United States #287 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily found in Scotland, Ireland, and English-speaking countries worldwide.

Donald Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Donald Surname

John A. Donald

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish or Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval Scotland
Estimated Bearers: 150,000

War Records

849 soldiers with the Donald surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →