Meaning, origin, history
Cornelius is a masculine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Cornelia, which was itself derived from the Latin word "cornus," meaning "horn" or "hazel." The name Cornelius has been used since ancient times and was popular among the early Christians.
The name Cornelius is most famously associated with the centurion Cornelius in the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. He was the first Gentile to be converted to Christianity, which is considered a significant event in Christian history. Because of this biblical figure, the name Cornelius has been strongly associated with the Christian faith and has been widely used by Christians throughout history.
The name Cornelius became particularly popular during the Middle Ages in Europe, especially among the nobility. It was often used as a given name for boys and also as a surname. Today, Cornelius is still used as a given name but it is less common than it once was.
Overall, the name Cornelius has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. Its meaning, derived from the Latin word "cornus," adds to its uniqueness and timelessness. Despite its less frequent use today, Cornelius remains a strong and distinct name with a significant historical background.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Corney since 1880
Total births
65
Total since 1880
Peak year
1987
8 births
in 1991
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years