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Cornell

♂ Boy

Pronounced kor-NEL /kɔrˈnɛl/High

Meaning: From a surname/form of Cornelius — Latin cornu, 'horn' — an ancient Roman family nameMedium

In 30 seconds: Scholarly and strong: Cornell is a form of Cornelius — 'horn' (an ancient Roman name). Distinguished, classic, and warm (singer Chris Cornell).

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Origin MediumLatin

MeaningFrom a surname/form of Cornelius — Latin cornu, 'horn' — an ancient Roman family name

U.S. rank (2025)#6194 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births14 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1962

Total births (all-time)≈ 11,347

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Cornell comes from a surname and form of Cornelius — from Latin cornu, 'horn' (an ancient Roman family name). A distinguished, scholarly name (Cornell University; Chris Cornell).

It registers thinly in records. Rare, horn at the root, and distinguished.

Did you know? Cornell relates to Cornelius, from Latin cornu, 'horn' — a great Roman family name (and Cornell University); singer Chris Cornell carried it.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Cornelius — root etymology

Variations

CorneliusCornelisCornel

Nicknames

CornyNeil

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Cornell…

Cornelius— the fuller name

Conrad— a fellow Con-/Cor- name

Darnell— a companion -nell name

Russell— another distinguished surname-name

Explore names like Cornell

By themelatin surname-name roman

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Cornell mean?

Cornell relates to Cornelius, from Latin cornu — 'horn'.

How do you pronounce Cornell?

It's said kor-NEL /kɔrˈnɛl/ — two syllables, stress on the second.

Is Cornell a boy or girl name?

Cornell is a boy's name.

How popular is Cornell?

Cornell is a rare name in the U.S.