Dougal is a Scottish Gaelic male given name, derived from the Scottish word 'dubh' meaning black or dark, and 'gal' meaning stranger or foreigner. It was traditionally used to describe someone of foreign origin who settled in Scotland. The name has been popular among the Scottish nobility throughout history, with notable figures like Dougal Campbell, 3rd Duke of Argyll. The name is often shortened to Doug or Dug.
"Dougal is quite rare; only five people were named Dougal in 1916."