Summary

The surname Donovan is of Irish origin and is derived from the personal name Donnabhán, meaning 'descendant of Donnubán'. It has a rich history and is associated with the ancient Celtic tribes of Ireland. The Donovans were known for their bravery and leadership qualities.
There are
40410
Donovans in the USA
Donovan is the
853rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Donovan

DanDonovan

Dan Donovan is a British Conservative Party politician and member of Parliament for East Worthing and Shoreham since 2015.

RayDonovan

Ray Donovan is a former American Secretary of Labor and served in the position from 1981 to 1985 under President Ronald Reagan.

PatrickDonovan

Patrick Donovan is an Australian politician and member of the Victorian Legislative Council representing the Eastern Victoria Region since 2014.

TateDonovan

Tate Donovan is an American actor and director, known for his roles in films such as 'Love Potion No. 9' and 'Good Night, and Good Luck.'

MartinDonovan

Martin Donovan is an American actor, known for his roles in independent films such as 'Trust' and 'The Opposite of Sex.'

ShaunDonovan

Shaun Donovan is an American government official who served as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 2009 to 2014 under President Barack Obama.

MickeyDonovan

Mickey Donovan is a fictional character in the television series 'Ray Donovan,' portrayed by actor Jon Voight.

AnneDonovan

Anne Donovan was an American professional basketball player and coach, known for her successful career in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

TimothyDonovan

Timothy Donovan is a British boxer who competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

SiobhanDonovan

Siobhan Donovan is an Irish actress, known for her roles in films like 'The Butcher Boy' and 'The Last September.'

Donovan Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Donovan' is of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name 'O' Donovan,' which means 'descendant of Donndubhán,' where 'Donndubhán' translates to 'dark brown-haired' or 'dark-haired chieftain.' The name 'Donovan' historically belonged to a prominent Irish clan.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Donovan' is most commonly found in Ireland, especially in the provinces of Munster and Connacht. It is also prevalent in countries with a significant Irish diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Donovan' include 'O'Donovan,' 'Donovanne,' 'Donovin,' 'Donavon,' and 'Donofan.'
Migration and ImmigrationDuring the Irish diaspora, many people with the surname 'Donovan' emigrated from Ireland to countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, seeking better economic opportunities and escaping the effects of the Great Famine.