Find out how popular the first name Parnell has been for the last 44 years (from 1974 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Parnell by gender

Based on the last 44 years of data, Parnell is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Parnell.

The history of the first name Parnell

The name Parnell originated from the Middle English word "parnell," which was derived from the Old French word "parneille" or "pernelle," meaning "a little key." This name was initially given to children born with a caul, a piece of membrane that sometimes covers a newborn's head during birth, which was believed to bring good luck.

In the early medieval period, the name Parnell was primarily used in England and parts of France. It was a relatively uncommon name but was occasionally found in historical records and literary works from that time.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Parnell can be found in the 13th-century work "The Ancren Riwle" (The Anchoresses' Rule), a guide for anchoresses (religious recluses) written in the West Midlands region of England. The text mentions a character named "Parnell the Handmaiden."

In the late 16th century, Parnell Willobie was an English poet best known for the work "Willobie His Avisa," published in 1594. This poem is considered one of the earliest examples of the sonnet cycle in English literature.

Another notable bearer of the name was Parnell Thomas (1896-1970), an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative from New Jersey and gained notoriety as the chairman of the House Un-American Activities Committee during the Red Scare of the late 1940s and early 1950s.

In the world of literature, Parnell Munson (1898-1976) was an American author and teacher known for her novel "The Evergreen Tree," published in 1938, which explored themes of family dynamics and social change in the American South.

Parnell Hall (born 1944) is an American writer and actor, best known for his series of mystery novels featuring the protagonist Stanley Hastings, a private detective in New York City.

While the name Parnell has been relatively uncommon throughout history, it has been borne by individuals from various backgrounds and professions, each leaving their mark in their respective fields.

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 Parnell was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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