Donovan

boyIrish

Donovan is an boy name of Irish origin, meaning “Dark-haired chief”.

MeaningDark-haired chief
GenderBoy
OriginIrish
PronunciationDON-uh-vun
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Ireland, Jamaica, South Africa

Meaning and origin of Donovan

Donovan comes from the Irish surname Ó Donnabháin, 'descendant of Donnabhán'. The personal name Donnabhán is usually explained as donn, 'brown, dark', plus a diminutive ending, so it suggests a dark-haired one; other interpretations exist. The Scottish singer Donovan and the actor Donovan McNabb made it familiar as a first name in the second half of the twentieth century.

Is Donovan a religious name?

Donovan is a surname-based name with no religious background.

How popular is Donovan?

An established but moderately used boy's name in the English-speaking world.

Gifts with the name Donovan

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Spellings and variants of Donovan

DonavanDonavonDonnovan

Names similar to Donovan

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Donovan mean?

Donovan means 'Dark-haired chief'. It is of Irish origin.

Does Donovan have a religious meaning?

Donovan is a surname-based name with no religious background.

How do you pronounce Donovan?

Donovan is pronounced DON-uh-vun.

Is Donovan a boy or girl name?

Donovan is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.