Find out how popular the first name Darnel has been for the last 48 years (from 1974 to 2021) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Darnel by gender

Based on the last 48 years of data, Darnel is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2021, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Darnel.

The history of the first name Darnel

The name Darnel traces its origins to the Old English word "dærnel," which referred to a type of weed known as the darnel ryegrass. This plant was a significant pest in medieval times, often found growing among wheat and other cereal crops. The name likely emerged as a nickname or descriptive term for someone who lived near fields plagued by this weed.

During the Anglo-Saxon period in England, the name Darnel appeared in various forms, including Dærnel, Dernell, and Dernill. It was a relatively uncommon name but was documented in several historical records from the 8th to the 11th centuries.

One of the earliest known references to the name Darnel can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land ownership in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name is recorded as "Dernell" in this document, suggesting its use at the time.

In the 13th century, a Franciscan friar named Darnel of Bury St. Edmunds (c. 1230-1290) gained recognition for his theological writings and sermons. His work, "De Nativitate Christi," was widely circulated in medieval England.

Another notable figure bearing the name Darnel was Sir Darnel Wyvill (c. 1400-1470), a member of the English gentry from Yorkshire. He served as a soldier and diplomat during the Wars of the Roses and was knighted for his service to the House of Lancaster.

During the Renaissance period, a Dutch painter named Darnel van Heil (c. 1510-1575) achieved recognition for his intricate still-life paintings and portraits. His works can be found in various museums across Europe, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

In the 17th century, Darnel Masterson (1634-1705) was an influential Puritan minister and author in colonial New England. He published several books on religious doctrine and was a prominent figure in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

While the name Darnel has fallen out of common use in modern times, it remains a part of historical records and literature, reflecting its unique connection to the natural world and the rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Darnel was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Darnel, please contact us.

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