Cornelius is a masculine given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman clan name Cornelia, which was itself derived from the Latin word "cornus," meaning "horn." The name Cornelius has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient Rome.
In Roman times, Cornelius was a common name among the patrician class. One of the most notable figures bearing this name was Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus, a Roman general who played a significant role in the Second Punic War. He is famous for his decisive victory over Carthage at the Battle of Zama in 202 BC, which earned him the cognomen "Africanus."
The name Cornelius was also popular among early Christians. St. Cornelius was a centurion in the Roman army who, according to Acts 10:1-48 in the New Testament, had a vision that led him to convert to Christianity and be baptized by St. Peter. This story has made Cornelius a revered figure in Christian tradition.
Over time, the name Cornelius has become associated with various cultures and nationalities. It is used in many European languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Dutch, and Scandinavian languages. In some cases, it may have different spellings or variations, such as Cornélius (French), Cornelius (Dutch), Kornelius (German), Cornelio (Italian), and Kornel (Hungarian).
Today, the name Cornelius is still in use, although it may not be as popular as it once was. It continues to evoke a sense of history and tradition, thanks to its long-standing association with notable figures from ancient Rome and early Christianity.
In terms of popularity, Cornelius has appeared on and off the lists of most popular names in various countries over the years. In the United States, for example, it has been more commonly given as a middle name than a first name. However, its rarity can also make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something unique and distinctive for their child.
Overall, the name Cornelius offers a rich tapestry of history and cultural significance, making it a fascinating choice for parents seeking a meaningful name for their child. Its Latin origins provide a strong foundation, while its association with prominent historical figures adds an air of prestige and importance.
The given statistics show the number of births with the name Corneil in the United States over several years. The name appears to have had its peak popularity during the late 1970s, with five babies named Corneil born each year from 1971 to 1978. Before this period, there was only one birth recorded for the name Corneil in 1918. After 1978, there is no further data provided on the number of births with this name. Therefore, based on these statistics alone, we can conclude that Corneil was not a very common name in the United States throughout most of the 20th century, but it experienced a brief period of modest popularity during the late 1970s.