Pernell

“place name”

English origin · originated from various places in England

♂ 92% boys♀ 8% girls

#892US 2023

1.3kBirths / yr

→Stable

3.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 191500

How to pronounce Pernell

PER·nul

/ˈpɝ.nəl/ · stress on PER · 2 syllables

“place name”

English origin · Unisex name

What does Pernell mean and where does it come from?

The name Pernell is derived from a surname that means 'place name'. It originated from various places in England. While traditionally considered a masculine name, it has been adapted as a female name in modern usage. Pernell is less common today, with few notable figures bearing the name, which cont

Cultural significance

Pernell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of place name.

Peak popularity

Reached #2259 in 1933 — currently #892 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Pernell?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Purnell

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Pernell?

Pernell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Pernell Grace

How popular is Pernell right now?

Holding steady — currently #892 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#892 · Top 0.66%

1915

1925

1930

1935

1940

1945

1950

1965

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#892	1,308	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#897	1,288	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#902	1,258	▲ up 5858 · +25060% births
1965	#6760	5	▼ down 3603 · -58% births
1950	#3157	12	▲ up 1701 · +140% births
1945	#4858	5	▼ down 1972 · -50% births
1940	#2886	10	▲ up 742 · +43% births
1935	#3628	7	▼ down 357 · -22% births
1930	#3271	9	▼ down 347 · -25% births
1925	#2924	12	▲ up 1318 · +100% births
1915	#4242	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Pernell

Best Year2023Rank #892

Peak Count1,308

Average Rank#3129

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 202311 years

The story of Pernell

Pernell entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 3,292 total births recorded, Pernell remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4242 in 1915 to #892 in 2023. Pernell is used for both genders: 8% female and 92% male.

Names that peaked alongside Pernell in 1933:

Mary Betty Barbara Dorothy Joan

Pernell by decade

Pernell peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	78
1920s	167
1930s	199
1940s	208
1950s	194
1960s ★	955
1970s	469
1980s	439
1990s	292
2000s	169
2010s	110
2020s	12

💎With 3,292 total births, Pernell is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Pernell?

Common

PerPeErnell

What names sound and feel like Pernell?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pernell also consider these

Percell

English · An Anglicized form

Persell

France · to pierce the

Vernell

USA · spring green

Jernell

American · Strong and hardy

Bernell

American · English

Kernell

American · victorious,

Reynell

English · A beloved name

Purnell

English · De la source

Common questions about the name Pernell

What does the name Pernell mean?

Pernell means "place name" — a name rooted in English 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 Pernell?

Pernell is currently ranked #892 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 Pernell?

Pernell originates from English tradition. English 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 Pernell?

Pernell is a two-syllable name pronounced P ER1 N AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Pernell a common or rare name?

Pernell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.