Family History and Genealogy Resources by Surname
O'Donovan Surname Origin
The descendants of Donovan, which is derived from Dondubhan, the brown-haired chief. This name was given to a celebrated Irish chieftain of the tenth century, who was killed by the famous Brian Boru.
Source: An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names With an Essay on their Derivation and Import; Arthur, William, M.A.; New York, NY: Sheldon, Blake, Bleeker & CO., 1857.
O'Donovan Surname Meaning and Family Facts
O'Donovan Last Name Meaning
Search the FREE Ancestry.com Name Dictionary.
There is more to O'Donovan family history than the origin of your surname:
Start your Genealogy to find your personal O'Donovan family ancestry. It's easy to get started. Just begin your family tree with what you already know. Learn More.
A O'Donovan Family History Thought:
'He who has no knaves, fools, or beggars in his family was begot by a flash of lightening.' --Old English Proverb