Cornelia

girlLatinChristian

Cornelia is a Christian girl name of Latin origin, meaning “From the Cornelius family”.

MeaningFrom the Cornelius family
GenderGirl
OriginLatin
Pronunciationkor-NEEL-yuh
TraditionChristian, Modern & Classic
Used inGermany, Netherlands, Sweden, United States

Meaning and origin of Cornelia

Cornelia is the feminine of Cornelius, one of the great Roman family names. Its origin is uncertain; it is often connected with cornu, 'horn', but that is a guess rather than settled fact. The most famous Roman bearer was Cornelia, mother of the reforming Gracchi brothers, admired as the model Roman mother. The name became popular again in Germany, the Netherlands and Scandinavia from the eighteenth century.

Is Cornelia a Christian name?

The masculine Cornelius appears in the Book of Acts as a Roman centurion baptised by Peter, often called the first Gentile convert. Cornelia itself is a classical name honoured by Christians through that connection rather than a biblical figure in her own right.

How popular is Cornelia?

Moderately used in Germany, the Netherlands and Scandinavia, and rare but appreciated as a vintage name in the United States.

Gifts with the name Cornelia

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Cornelia

CornélieKorneliaNellyCorrieLia

Names similar to Cornelia

More Christian girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Cornelia mean?

Cornelia means 'From the Cornelius family'. It is of Latin origin.

Is Cornelia a Christian name?

The masculine Cornelius appears in the Book of Acts as a Roman centurion baptised by Peter, often called the first Gentile convert. Cornelia itself is a classical name honoured by Christians through that connection rather than a biblical figure in her own right.

How do you pronounce Cornelia?

Cornelia is pronounced kor-NEEL-yuh.

Is Cornelia a boy or girl name?

Cornelia is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.