Dunne Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Dunne come from? What does the surname Dunne mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Dunne and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Dunne Origin: What does the last name Dunne mean?
The surname Dunne is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic words Ó Duinn and Ó Doinn, meaning "dark" or "brown." It is associated with Gaelic septs in counties such as Laois, Meath, and Wicklow, descended from the O'Regan noble family. The Dunne family in Ireland historically used the Gaelic names Ó Duinn or Ó Doinn, both derived from the Gaelic word donn, meaning "brown." First found in County Meath, the Dunne surname has ancient roots and is linked to the Ui Failghe chiefly families.
YourRoots data traces the presence of the Dunne surname in records from Ireland since the early 16th century, indicating a strong historical connection to the country. Over the centuries, the Dunne surname has spread globally, with notable concentrations in the United States and the United Kingdom. Today, Dunne family records can be found in various countries, including Ireland, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, highlighting the widespread distribution and enduring legacy of this surname.
Dunne Last Name History: Where did the last name Dunne come from?
Origin of Dunne Surname: Where does the last name Dunne originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Dunne first appeared in records from Ireland around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Dunne spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Dunne: What does the Dunne surname history look like in the early days?
The Dunne surname remained closely associated with England and Ireland from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Dunne family records in countries like the United Kingdom and the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Dunne surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Dunne surname grew significantly in Ireland and the United States. The Dunne surname remains prominent in Ireland, the United States, and other countries. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
Explore Dunne last name heritage and Dunne surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Dunne Surame?
Livvy Dunne
Olivia Paige Dunne (born Oct 1, 2002) is an American artistic gymnast, influencer, and internet personality. She gained fame as a member of the LSU Tigers women's gymnastics team and Sports Illustrated swimsuit model. Dunne started her gymnastics career at a young age and rose to prominence in the elite gymnastics world, competing at various national and international events. With a massive social media following, she is known for her skills on the uneven bars and floor exercise, contributing to LSU's success in collegiate gymnastics. Dunne continues to inspire fans with her talent and dedication to the sport.
Dominique Dunne
Dominique Ellen Dunne (Nov 23, 1959 – Nov 4, 1982) was an American actress known for her role as Dana Freeling in the horror film "Poltergeist" (1982). She came from a family of actors and writers, including her brother Griffin Dunne and her uncle John Gregory Dunne. Tragically, she was strangled by her ex-boyfriend and passed away at a young age. Despite her short career, Dunne left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and is remembered for her talent and potential.
Irene Dunne
Irene Marie Dunn (December 20, 1898 – September 4, 1990) was an American actress known for her comedic roles during Hollywood's Golden Age. She starred in films like "The Awful Truth" and "Love Affair," often partnered with Cary Grant and Charles Boyer. Despite five Academy Award nominations, she never won, but her talent as a comedic actress in screwball comedies was widely praised. After her acting career, Dunn focused on philanthropy and advocacy, earning numerous awards for her contributions to the arts and humanitarian causes. She was nicknamed "The First Lady of Hollywood" for her grace and talent, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Ellen Griffin Dunne
Ellen Beatriz Griffin Dunne (January 28, 1932 – January 9, 1997) was an American activist known for founding Justice for Homicide Victims after the tragic murder of her daughter, Dominique Dunne. Ellen was recognized for her advocacy work by President George H. W. Bush in 1989. She also battled multiple sclerosis and relocated to Nogales, where she passed away before her 65th birthday.
Finley Peter Dunne
Finley Peter Dunne (July 10, 1867 – April 24, 1936) was an American humorist, journalist, and writer best known for his creation of the character Mr. Dooley. Born Peter Dunne in Chicago to Irish immigrant parents, he rose to fame with his nationally syndicated sketches that humorously tackled political and social issues of the day. His wit and insight gained the admiration of President Theodore Roosevelt, who even had Dunne's work read at White House cabinet meetings. Dunne's legacy as a talented writer and satirist continues to be celebrated in American literary history.
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