Cornelius Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Cornelius come from? What does the surname Cornelius mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Cornelius and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Cornelius Origin: What does the last name Cornelius mean?
The surname Cornelius is of Roman origin, believed to stem from the Latin word cornu, meaning "horn." In Ireland, it was commonly used as an anglicized version of the name Connor. According to data from YourRoots, the Cornelius surname first appeared in English records around the early 19th century and remained closely associated with England from the 17th to 19th centuries. Over time, it spread globally, with significant concentrations found in the United States, Australia, Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand. The surname also has a presence in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, India, and Jamaica.
YourRoots data highlights the widespread distribution of the Cornelius surname across various regions and cultures, indicating its enduring legacy. From its origins in Roman times to its expansion and adoption in different countries over the centuries, the Cornelius surname reflects a rich and diverse history. Today, individuals with the surname Cornelius can be found in numerous countries worldwide, showcasing the global reach and continued relevance of this ancient Roman-derived name.
Cornelius Last Name History: Where did the last name Cornelius come from?
Origin of Cornelius Surname: Where does the last name Cornelius originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Cornelius first appeared in records from England around the early 19th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Cornelius spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Cornelius: What does the Cornelius surname history look like in the early days?
The Cornelius surname remained closely associated with England from the 17th to 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Cornelius family records in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Cornelius surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Cornelius surname grew significantly in the United States, Australia, Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand. The Cornelius surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, India, and Jamaica.
Explore Cornelius last name heritage and Cornelius surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Cornelius Surame?
Don Cornelius
Donald Cortez Cornelius (September 27, 1936 – February 1, 2012) was an American television show host and producer best known as the creator of the iconic dance and music series, Soul Train. He introduced African American musicians to a wider audience and promoted black culture through the show. Cornelius's catchphrases and smooth hosting style made him a beloved figure in entertainment. Despite controversies later in his life, his impact on music and television remains significant.
Pope Cornelius
Pope Cornelius (6th or 13th Mar 251 – June 253) was the bishop of Rome during a period of persecution of the church. He held a moderate stance on readmitting members who had lapsed during the persecution, leading to a schism with the Novatianists. Cornelius convened a synod to confirm his papacy and excommunicate Novatian. Despite facing opposition, he had the support of prominent bishops like Cyprian. Cornelius was eventually exiled and died in Italy, with conflicting reports on whether he succumbed to the rigors of banishment or was beheaded. His letters in exile were written in colloquial Latin, reflecting his humble nature.
Derek Cornelius
Derek Austin Cornelius (born Nov 25, 1997) is a Canadian professional soccer player known for his impressive career with clubs like Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Malmö FF. He has also represented Canada in international competitions, showcasing his talent as a centre-back. With a strong background in youth camps and impressive debuts, Cornelius has proven himself as a rising star in the soccer world. His journey from Ajax, Ontario to Ligue 1 club Marseille highlights his dedication and skill on the field, making him a player to watch in the world of soccer.
Robert Cornelius
Robert Cornelius (March 1, 1809 – August 10, 1893) was an American photographer and pioneer in the history of photography. He is known for taking the first known photographic portrait of a person in the United States in 1839. Cornelius operated some of the earliest photography studios in the country and made significant advancements in reducing exposure times for portraits. In addition to his contributions to photography, he was an inventor, businessman, and lamp manufacturer, known for creating the popular "solar lamp" that burned brighter and used cheaper fuel than whale oil. Cornelius's legacy lives on through his innovative work in photography and lighting technology.
Andreas Cornelius
Andreas Evald Cornelius (born Mar 16, 1993) is a Danish professional footballer known for his time playing as a striker for Copenhagen and the Denmark national team. He made his mark in the football world with impressive performances for F.C. Copenhagen, Cardiff City, and Atalanta, showcasing his skills and goal-scoring abilities. Despite facing some injuries throughout his career, Cornelius has continued to impress fans with his talent on the field. His journey from Denmark to Serie A clubs has solidified his reputation as a skilled and dedicated player in the world of professional football.
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