“Of the corn or seed; typically masculine but used in female contexts.” — Associated with prestigious institutions such as Cornell Universit
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#1888US 2023
312Births / yr
→Stable
11.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 191500
How to pronounce Cornell
kaw·RNEL
/kɔ.ˈrnɛl/ · stress on RNEL · 2 syllables
“Of the corn or seed; typically masculine but used in female contexts.”
Associated with prestigious institutions such as Cornell Universit · American origin
What does Cornell mean and where does it come from?
Cornell is rooted in the Latin word 'cornu,' meaning horn, but it is also linked to 'Cornelia,' a notable Roman family name. While traditionally a male name, its use as a female name has emerged more recently. It is often associated with prestigious institutions such as Cornell University, named aft
Cultural significance
Cornell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of the corn or seed; typically masculine but used in female contexts..
Peak popularity
Reached #2588 in 1915 — currently #1888 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1888 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#1888 · Top 1.4%
1915
1920
1925
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1888
312
▲ up 5 · +7% births
2022
#1893
292
▲ up 5 · +11% births
2021
#1898
262
▲ up 3870 · +4267% births
1960
#5768
6
▼ down 958 · -14% births
1955
#4810
7
▲ up 594 · +40% births
1950
#5404
5
▼ down 1666 · -29% births
1945
#3738
7
▲ up 735 · +40% births
1940
#4473
5
▼ down 1258 · -37% births
1935
#3215
8
▲ up 208 · -11% births
1925
#3423
9
▲ up 1066 · +50% births
1920
#4489
6
▼ down 1901 · -45% births
1915
#2588
11
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Cornell
2023Rank #1888
312
#3632
↗Rising
1915 - 202312 years
The story of Cornell
Cornell entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. A total of 11,579 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2588 in 1915 to #1888 in 2023. Cornell is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Cornell means "Of the corn or seed; typically masculine but used in female contexts." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cornell?
Cornell is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Cornell?
Cornell originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Cornell?
Cornell is a two-syllable name pronounced K AO0 R N EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cornell a common or rare name?
Cornell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Cornell
For a sister
Cornell & Hazel♡
Cornell & Harrison♡
Cornell & Dean♡
Cornell & Grant♡
For a brother
Cornell & Everett♡
Cornell & Harrison♡
Cornell & Dean♡
Cornell & Grant♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1888
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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