Cornel is a unique and distinctive given name of Romanian origin. It is derived from the Latin word "cornu," which means "horn" or "horned." The name Cornel is believed to have been popularized by the ancient Romans, who often gave it as a surname to people who were born with a birthmark resembling a horn.
Throughout history, the name Cornel has been associated with several notable figures. One of the most famous bearers of this name was Cornelius Nepos, a Roman historian and biographer who lived during the 1st century BCE. He is best known for his collection of biographies called "De Viris Illustribus" (On Eminent Men), which includes profiles of prominent Greek and Roman figures.
In Romania, Cornel has been a popular given name for centuries, with many notable individuals bearing this name throughout history. For example, Corneliu Zelea Codreanu was the founder of the Iron Guard, a far-right political movement that played a significant role in Romanian politics during the early 20th century.
Today, Cornel remains a popular choice among parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their children. Its unique origin and historical significance make it an attractive option for those seeking a name with a rich cultural heritage. Despite its popularity in Romania, Cornel is still relatively uncommon in other parts of the world, making it a truly unique and special name.
The name Corneal appears to have been popular for boys born in the late 1950s and early 1970s, with a total of 22 births recorded over this period. The name was most frequently chosen in 1957 and 1959, with six births each year. It then saw a dip in popularity before rising again in 1971 with five births that year. However, it did not maintain this level of popularity afterwards, as no further births were recorded under the name Corneal after 1980.