Meaning, origin, history
Petronilla is a female given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "petra," which means "rock" or "stone," and the suffix "-nilla," which is a diminutive ending. Thus, Petronilla roughly translates to "little stone."
The name Petronilla was quite popular in medieval Europe, particularly among noble families. One of the most notable figures bearing this name was Saint Petronilla, the reputed daughter of Saint Peter the Apostle. According to Catholic tradition, she was martyred during the reign of Emperor Nero around 67 AD.
Despite its historical significance and once-popularity, Petronilla is not a common name today. It has largely been overshadowed by more popular and modern names in recent decades. However, it remains an intriguing choice for parents looking for a unique yet historically significant name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Petronilla since 1880
Total births
57
Total since 1880
Peak year
1927
7 births
in 1935
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years