Douglas

Douglas derives from the Scottish Gaelic name Dùghlas, composed of the elements dubh, meaning dark or black, and glais, meaning stream or river. It originated as a place name in Scotland, referring to a dark-flowing river, and was taken as a surname by a powerful Scottish clan before passing into use as a given name. The Black Douglases were one of the most influential noble families in medieval Scotland, which helped spread the name's prestige. Douglass is an occasional spelling variant, and the name has also been used as a feminine name, particularly in the 19th century.