Macdonald is a Scottish surname and given name that originated from the Gaelic Mac Domhnaich, which means "son of Domhnall". The name Domhnall itself comes from the Old Irish personal name Donál, which means "world mighty" or "proud". Over time, the name Macdonald has been anglicized to McDonald.
The surname Macdonald is one of the most common surnames in Scotland and is particularly associated with the Highlands. It was historically given to people who were descended from a man named Donald. The clan Macdonald is one of the largest Highland clans and played a significant role in Scottish history, with notable figures such as Ranald Macdonald, who fought alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie during the Jacobite Risings.
The name Macdonald has also been used as a given name, particularly in Scotland and other parts of the English-speaking world. It gained popularity as a given name in the 19th century and has remained a popular choice since then. Some notable people with the given name Macdonald include Canadian author Robertson Davies and American actor Macdonald Carey.
In literature, the name Macdonald is perhaps most famously associated with the Scottish novelist George MacDonald, who was known for his fantasy novels and fairy tales. His works have had a significant influence on authors such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
Overall, the name Macdonald has a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Whether used as a surname or given name, it carries with it a sense of Scottish heritage and tradition.
The name Macdonald has seen a varied pattern of usage over the years in the United States, with a total of 154 babies being named Macdonald between 1915 and 2002.
The name's popularity peaked during the 1960s, with nine births each in 1961 and 1962. This was followed by a steady decline in usage, with only five births recorded in both 1973 and 1990, and again in 2002.
Interestingly, there were periods where the name Macdonald was not given to any babies at all for several years. For instance, no babies were named Macdonald between 1954 and 1956, or between 1965 and 1973.
Despite these fluctuations, it's clear that Macdonald has remained a unique choice for parents throughout the 20th century in the United States. While not one of the most popular names, its usage demonstrates a consistent, if small, presence over time.