Meaning, origin, history
Cornelius is a name of Latin origin that has been used throughout history. It is derived from the Roman family name Cornelia, which means "from the horn" or "strong." This name was popular among ancient Romans and was often associated with high-ranking individuals.
The name Cornelius first appears in the New Testament of the Bible, where it is given to a Roman centurion who is considered by some to be the first Gentile convert to Christianity. This association has contributed to the popularity of the name throughout Christian history.
Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, the name Cornelius continued to be used in Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. It was also popular among royal families during this time, with several kings and nobles bearing the name.
In modern times, Cornelius remains a popular name for boys in many countries around the world. It has been consistently ranked among the top 1000 names for boys in the United States since the 1950s. While it is still most commonly used as a boy's name, there have been some notable women who have also borne this name throughout history.
Overall, Cornelius is a strong and enduring name with a rich history and meaningful origin. It has been worn by many notable individuals throughout time and continues to be a popular choice for parents today.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Cornelius since 1880
Total births
36,254
Total since 1880
Peak year
1974
486 births
in 2023
83
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-20%
↘
vs previous 5 years