Donald

boyScottish Gaelic

Donald is a boy name of Scottish Gaelic origin, meaning “World ruler”.

MeaningWorld ruler
GenderBoy
OriginScottish Gaelic
PronunciationDON-uld
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia

Meaning and origin of Donald

Donald is the anglicised form of the Gaelic Domhnall, made of old Celtic elements usually explained as 'world' and 'rule'. It was the name of several early Scottish kings and became the foundation of Clan MacDonald, 'son of Donald'. The name spread widely in the English-speaking world in the early twentieth century, and Walt Disney's Donald Duck made it famous everywhere.

Is Donald a religious name?

Donald has no particular religious background; it is a Scottish royal and clan name.

How popular is Donald?

Very common among men born in the mid-twentieth century; rare for babies today.

Gifts with the name Donald

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Spellings and variants of Donald

DomhnallDonalDonDonny

Names similar to Donald

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Donald mean?

Donald means 'World ruler'. It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

Does Donald have a religious meaning?

Donald has no particular religious background; it is a Scottish royal and clan name.

How do you pronounce Donald?

Donald is pronounced DON-uld.

Is Donald a boy or girl name?

Donald is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.