Burnell
Burnell is a boy's name of Germanic origin.
Meaning
Little brown one or small brook.
Origin and history
Burnell is an English name derived from a surname meaning 'little brown one' or 'brook of the spring'. It was historically used in the United States throughout the twentieth century but remains rare today. The name carries a traditional, vintage appeal with geographic and nature-inspired roots.
Popularity in the United States
2,790 babies in the United States have been named Burnell since 1880. It ranks #2449 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1917.
States where it is most popular
- LA (46.2 %)
- PA (27.8 %)
- MS (12.7 %)
- IL (3.4 %)
- MN (2 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 14 |
| 1910-1920 | 326 |
| 1920-1930 | 562 |
| 1930-1940 | 467 |
| 1940-1950 | 410 |
| 1950-1960 | 364 |
| 1960-1970 | 216 |
| 1970-1980 | 148 |
| 1980-1990 | 122 |
| 1990-2000 | 88 |
| 2000-2010 | 29 |
| 2010-2019 | 34 |
| 2020-2029 | 10 |
Fun facts
- Burnell originally developed as a medieval English surname derived from a nickname for someone with brown hair or clothing, or from a topographic location.
- Although rare today, Burnell experienced moderate usage in the early-to-mid 20th century in the United States.