Where Does the O'Donnel Surname Come From?

If your family name is O'Donnel, its origin lies with O'Donnell, a long-established Irish surname.

What is the meaning of O'Donnel?

The name is usually explained as “Descendant of Domhnall ("world mighty")”.

Is O'Donnel the same name as O'Donnell?

O'Donnel drops the “l” of O'Donnell, a simplification that clerks often made. Related forms: Donnell and MacDonnell.

Is there a O'Donnel coat of arms?

Heraldry is personal: arms associated with the O'Donnell surname were borne by specific families, and sharing the name does not mean sharing the blazon.

Research your O'Donnel family history with a full surname report and painted coat of arms.