Dolan is a unique and intriguing given name of Irish origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the Emerald Isle's rich cultural heritage.
The name Dolan is derived from an ancient Gaelic surname that was originally bestowed upon descendants of a dark-complexioned person. In Irish, "dubh" signifies black or dark, while "-án" is a diminutive suffix. Thus, Dolan literally translates to "little dark one," reflecting the physical feature of its original bearer.
The name Dolan has been present in Ireland for centuries and was borne by several notable figures throughout history. One of the earliest recorded instances of the surname can be traced back to the 13th century in County Tipperary, where a family named O'Dolan was recorded in the ancient annals of Ireland.
In the modern era, Dolan has transcended its origins and become a unisex given name. While it is still relatively uncommon, those who bear this distinctive moniker carry with them a unique and captivating story rooted in the verdant lands of Ireland. The name Dolan continues to evoke intrigue and fascination due to its ancient Gaelic roots and unique etymology.
The name Dolan has seen a fascinating journey in terms of popularity over the past century in the United States. In the early years from 1914 to 1968, it remained relatively uncommon with fewer than 20 births each year.
However, starting from 1970, we see a significant uptick in its usage. This period marks the beginning of Dolan's rise in popularity, with 26 births recorded that year. The name continued to gain traction throughout the 1970s and 1980s, peaking at 36 births in 1996.
The late 1990s saw a slight decline in its usage but Dolan remained popular, with over 20 births each year until around 2014. Since then, it has been less common again, with fewer than 20 births recorded annually since 2015.
Overall, from 1914 to 2023, there have been a total of 1701 babies named Dolan born in the United States. Despite its fluctuations in popularity over time, Dolan has maintained a steady presence among American baby names for over a century now.