Donahue Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Donahue come from? What does the surname Donahue mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Donahue and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Donahue Origin: What does the last name Donahue mean?
The surname Donahue is derived from the ancient Irish name "Donnchadh" or "Donncha," which was a common first name in 9th century Ireland. As the use of surnames became more prevalent in 10th century Ireland, many people adopted the surname O'Donnchadha, meaning "the son of Donnacha" or "of the line of Donnacha." This surname is linked to at least eight unrelated Donnachas in Ireland, with the modern Donahues descending from one of these lineages.
According to YourRoots data, the surname Donahue first appeared in records from the United States in the early 18th century. The name has remained closely associated with Ireland, Scotland, and the United States from the 17th to the 19th centuries, with a significant presence in the United States by the 20th century. The Donahue surname has a global spread, with records indicating its presence in countries worldwide over the centuries, highlighting its enduring legacy and widespread distribution.
Donahue Last Name History: Where did the last name Donahue come from?
Origin of Donahue Surname: Where does the last name Donahue originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Donahue first appeared in records from United States around the early 18th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Donahue spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Donahue: What does the Donahue surname history look like in the early days?
The Donahue surname remained closely associated with Ireland, Scotland (United Kingdom), and United States from the 17th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Donahue family records in countries indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Donahue surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Donahue surname grew significantly in United States. The Donahue surname remains prominent in United States.
Explore Donahue last name heritage and Donahue surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Donahue Surame?
Phil Donahue
Phillip John Donahue (December 21, 1935 – August 18, 2024) was an influential American media personality known for creating and hosting The Phil Donahue Show, the first popular talk show to feature audience participation. With a 29-year run from 1967 to 1996, Donahue tackled divisive issues like abortion, civil rights, and war, earning him the title of the "king of daytime talk." His impact on the talk show genre paved the way for future hosts like Oprah Winfrey. Donahue also co-hosted the groundbreaking U.S.-Soviet Space Bridge, promoting dialogue between citizens of both nations during the Cold War.
Elinor Donahue
Elinor Donahue (Mary Eleanor Donahue, April 19, 1937) is an American retired actress best known for her role as Betty Anderson on the 1950s sitcom Father Knows Best. She also appeared in various TV shows like The Andy Griffith Show and The Odd Couple. Donahue showcased her versatility by playing different characters throughout the decades, including a recurring role on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Her career spanned from the 1950s to the 1990s, leaving a lasting impact on television history.
Heather Donahue
Rei Hance (Heather Donahue; December 22, 1974) is an American retired actress best known for her role in the horror film The Blair Witch Project (1999) and the miniseries Taken (2002). After leaving acting, she became a medical marijuana grower and legally changed her name to Rei Hance in 2020. Donahue's career included nominations for various awards and a successful transition into writing and business ventures, including the publication of her book Growgirl. She continues to explore new opportunities, showcasing her diverse talents beyond the entertainment industry.
Jocelin Donahue
Jocelin Donahue (November 8, 1981 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in horror films and independent cinema. She gained recognition for her lead role in the acclaimed horror movie "The House of the Devil" and has appeared in films like "Insidious: Chapter 2" and "Doctor Sleep." Donahue has also worked on commercials for brands like Levi's and Apple. With a degree in sociology from New York University, she has showcased her talent in various genres and continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry.
Patty Donahue
Patricia Jean Donahue (March 29, 1956 – December 9, 1996) was the lead singer of the American new wave group The Waitresses in the 1980s. Known for hits like "I Know What Boys Like" and "Christmas Wrapping," Donahue broke barriers for women in rock music. Despite leaving the band during the recording of their second album, she later collaborated with Alice Cooper. After stepping away from performing, she worked in talent scouting and A&R for MCA Records. Sadly, she passed away from lung cancer at the age of 40, leaving behind a legacy of attitude and talent in the music industry.
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