Holding steady.
Popularity of Donnella since 1928
Babies named Donnella per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 6 |
| 1930s | 11 |
| 1940s | 31 |
| 1950s | 74 |
| 1960s | 82 |
| 1970s | 105 |
| 1980s | 17 |
| 1990s | 11 |
| 2000s | 7 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Donnella first appeared in U.S. data in 1928, but its most notable period of use was the 1970s, peaking in 1972. Despite never reaching high ranks, it saw regular, if sparse, use during that decade. The name has since become extremely rare; after the 1970s, its trajectory has been stable at very low levels, and it is no longer recorded in significant numbers. Its sound fits alongside other -ella coinages of the era like Marcella and Rosella, and it shares roots with the Scottish Donald. Parents who choose Donnella today are giving a name with mid-century charm and a clear feminine derivation.
Donnella is a feminine elaboration of the Scottish name Donald, which derives from the Gaelic Domhnall meaning 'world ruler' or 'ruler of the world.' The suffix -ella adds a diminutive or feminine touch. It emerged as a given name in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States, and saw modest use during the mid-1900s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Donna, Ella, Nell, Nella, Donnie
Sibling names for Donnella
Names that share Donnella's style, for a brother or sister.
