Donovan, derived from the Irish name Domhnall, is of Gaelic origin and means 'dark, brown'. It was popularized during the Victorian era due to its association with Charles Dickens' character in his novel 'Dombey and Son'. The name gained further popularity through figures like actor Donovan Phillips who starred in films such as 'The Color Purple' and musician Donovan Leitch, known for hits like 'Sunshine Superman'. Variant spellings include Dominick and Donavin.
"From 1985 to 1996, the name Dominique saw its popularity fluctuate with a total of 73 babies named in that period."