Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 KOR-nel /kɔrˈnɛl/
"Horned hill"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
Derived from the Latin word 'cornus' meaning 'horn'. This name may be associated with strength and protection due to its connection to the horns of a bull or other powerful creature.
Cornell is an English surname and given derived from a shortened form of Cornwall, Cornwell or Cornhill, and also a Dutch surname. Sometimes the name is an Americanized form of the Czech Kornel or the German and Swedish Kornell. In Dutch, and sometimes in English, the name derives from the Latin gens Cornelia, one of the most famous tribes in ancient republican Rome, to whom Publio Cornelio Scipio belonged. The name of the tribe survives in Italy as Corneli or Cornelli.
The name Cornell has its roots in Latin, specifically from 'cornu', meaning 'horn', and the diminutive '-ell', signifying 'small'. Historically, the name may relate to 'Cornelius', a Roman name meanin…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Expressive, artistic, and socially gracious.
Life Path 7 — Wisdom & Introspection: Analytical, spiritual, and truth-seeking.
Cultural Impact
The name Cornell has roots in the Latin language and is associated with strength and power through its connection to the horns of animals, which were often used as symbols of strength and protection in ancient cultures. Cornell has been the name of several prestigious universities and institutions, including Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, which was founded in 1865. The name Cornell is also associated with excellence and achievement, as evidenced by the many prominent individuals who bear this name.
Spiritual Significance
In Christian symbolism, the horn is often used as a symbol of strength, power, and salvation. The Book of Psalms in the Bible mentions the horn of salvation several times, emphasizing the idea of protection and deliverance through God. The name Cornell may be seen as a reminder of the strength and protection that comes from putting faith in God and relying on His provision and guidance in times of need. Additionally, the shape of a horn can be seen as a reflection of the shofar, the trumpet-like instrument made from a ram's horn, which is used in Jewish liturgy and symbolizes the call to repentance and the announcement of God's presence.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Cornell" emerges in Latin tradition, carrying the core meaning "Horned hill".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form. Continues to be used across multiple cultures worldwide.
~11,681 people named Cornell in the US. Peaked in 1962 with 247 recorded uses.
Cornell means "Horned hill" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Cornell is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Cornell has Latin origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Cornell is 7, associated with Wisdom & Introspection. Soul Urge: 11. Personality: 5.
Cornell is Predominantly Male. Based on US data, 97% male and 3% female.
Approximately 11,681 people in the United States are named Cornell. The name peaked in 1962 with 247 recorded uses.
Related Names
Similar Sounding
From Our Database
🔍 Look up another name's meaning