Purnell is an uncommon yet distinctive given name of English origin, derived from the Middle English word 'pornele', which means 'fuller'. Fullers were individuals who cleaned and thickened cloth by beating it in water containing fuller's earth or other agents. The name Purnell was first recorded in England during the late 13th century but has since become quite rare, making it a unique choice for parents seeking an unusual yet historically significant name for their child.
The name Purnell was born to six children in the year 1919.