The name Donnie is a diminutive form of the given name Donald, which is derived from the Gaelic name Domhnall. Domhnall is made up of the elements "domhan" meaning "world" and the suffix "-all" meaning "might" or "rule." Together, the name Donald carries the meaning "world ruler" or "world mighty."

The name Donald has its origins in the medieval kingdom of Dál Riata, which spanned parts of western Scotland and northeastern Ireland. It was a popular name among the Gaelic-speaking inhabitants of this region during the Middle Ages. The earliest recorded examples of the name can be traced back to the 9th century.

One of the earliest notable figures to bear the name was Donald I, who reigned as the King of the Picts in Scotland from 858 to 862 AD. Another early historical reference can be found in the Annals of Ulster, an Irish chronicle that mentions a Donald MacAulay in the year 1033.

Over the centuries, the name Donald has been borne by several notable individuals, including Donald III of Scotland (1033-1099), who was the King of Scots from 1093 until his death. In the realm of literature, the Scottish poet and writer Donald Cargill (1619-1681) is remembered for his religious works and his opposition to the Church of Scotland's episcopacy.

Moving into the modern era, the name Donnie gained popularity as a diminutive form of Donald. One of the earliest famous individuals to bear the name Donnie was Donnie Dunagan (born 1934), an American former child actor who provided the voice of Young Bambi in the classic Disney film "Bambi" (1942). Another notable Donnie was Donnie Brooks (1936-1973), an American singer and songwriter known for his hits in the 1950s and 1960s.

In the realm of sports, Donnie Allison (born 1939) was a NASCAR driver who won 10 races in his career, while Donnie Walsh (born 1941) was a renowned basketball coach and executive, serving as the president of the Indiana Pacers and later the New York Knicks.

The name Donnie has also been associated with popular culture, with Donnie Wahlberg (born 1969) being a famous American actor, singer, and producer, known for his roles in films like "The Sixth Sense" and his work with the music group New Kids on the Block.