Donal is of Irish origin, derived from the ancient name Domhnall, which means 'proud chief' or 'world mighty'. It was borne by several early Irish kings and saints, notably St. Donal of Lismore, who founded a monastery on Cape Clear Island. The name was also popularized by Donal Ó Conaill, a 14th-century Irish poet. Today, it is still used in Ireland but has also gained international recognition due to figures like actor Donal Logue and golfer Donal Hughes.
No other namesakes were born that year.