How common is the O'Donnell surname?

There are approximately 200,000 people with the surname O'Donnell in the United States.

Are there O'Donnell soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,010 soldiers with the O'Donnell surname appear in Civil War records.

O'Donnell

Q: What does the surname O'Donnell mean?

The surname O'Donnell means "Descendant of Domhnall, derived from the Gaelic 'domh' (world) and 'nal' (mighty), meaning 'world ruler.'". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Domhnall, derived from the Gaelic 'domh' (world) and 'nal' (mighty), meaning 'world ruler.'

Etymology

The surname comes from the Irish 'Ó Domhnaill,' where 'Ó' means 'descendant of' and Domhnall is a personal name. The name likely derives from Old Celtic elements meaning 'world' and 'mighty' or 'ruler.'

About the O'Donnell Surname

O'Donnell is a prominent Ulster surname with deep roots in County Donegal and the northern regions of Ireland. The O'Donnell clan was one of the most powerful families in Ulster throughout medieval and early modern times.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 200,000 bearers in the United States #248 most common surname

Rare Common

Concentrated in Ulster, particularly in County Donegal, with significant populations in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

O'Donnell Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

D.O. O'Donnell

Inspector

P.J. O'Donnell

W.M. O'Donnell

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Estimated Bearers: 200,000

War Records

1,010 soldiers with the O'Donnell surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →