Cornelia is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Cornelii, which was taken from the male cognomen Cornelius. The name is believed to have been coined by Publius Cornelius Scipio, who added it as an accolade for his courage in battle during the Second Punic War against Hannibal.
The meaning of Cornelia is associated with a variety of interpretations depending on its translation and context. Some sources suggest that Cornelia means "horn" or "small horn," referring to the Latin word cornus. Others interpret it as signifying "girl" or "maiden" from the Latin word cornu, which can denote a maiden's headdress or a young girl.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures bearing the name Cornelia. One of the most famous is Cornelia, the daughter of Scipio Africanus and wife of Publius Cornelius Scipio Aemilianus, who was a prominent Roman general during the Second Punic War. Their son, also named Scipio, became known as Scipio Africanus the Younger after his victory against Carthage.
Another notable figure is Cornelia, the mother of the Gracchi brothers, Tiberius and Gaius Sempronius Gracchus, who were influential statesmen and advocates for social reform in ancient Rome. Cornelia was renowned for her intelligence, strength of character, and devotion to her family.
In more recent times, Cornelia has been used as a given name in various cultures, with notable bearers including the British author Cornelia Funke, known for her popular children's books such as "The Thief Lord" and the "Inkheart" trilogy. Additionally, the Dutch-born American astronomer Cornelia B. Ottevaere was an early advocate for women in science.
Today, Cornelia remains a less common but elegant choice for a girl's name, carrying with it a rich history and strong associations with intelligence, courage, and elegance. Its Latin origins give it an air of sophistication, while its unique sound makes it stand out among more common names. As with many historical names, the popularity of Cornelia has waxed and waned over time, but it continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its timeless appeal and deep-rooted meaning.
The name Cornelia saw its peak popularity between the late 19th century and early 20th century, with over 400 births per year recorded consistently from 1916 to 1927. However, its usage declined dramatically post-World War II, dropping below 50 births per year by the mid-1950s. Today, Cornelia is rarely used as a baby name, with fewer than 50 births recorded annually since the 1980s.