Pernell
Below 5 births
2025 SSA
About Pernell
Pernell is a masculine name with French origins, believed to be a variant of Purnell or a diminutive form of Peter (Pierre in French). The name may ultimately derive from the Latin 'Petronellus,' a masculine form related to Petronella. Pernell gained modest recognition in the United States during the mid-20th century, largely due to actor Pernell Roberts, known for his roles in 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, M.D.' Despite this cultural presence, the name has remained uncommon, never breaking into mainstream popularity. Pernell has a distinguished, somewhat aristocratic quality with its French influence, while maintaining a strong masculine sound. The name's rarity makes it distinctive for those seeking something recognizable but rarely encountered in contemporary naming.
Pernell is also given to girls.
Pronounced per-NEL.
As of October 2026, Pernell ranked #11660 for boys in US births in 2025 and #9212 for girls in US births in 1972 SSA, peaked at #593 for boys in 1964 and #2254 for girls in 1933.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · boys | Births · boys | US rank · girls | Births · girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | — | 0 |
Pernell on lists
Famous Pernells
- Pernell McPheeBoy
American football player
- Pernell DavisBoy
American football player
- Pernell Elven RobertsBoy
American actor
- Pernell SaturninoBoy
Curaçaon percussionist
- Pernell "Sweet Pea" WhitakerBoy
American boxing trainer
- PernellBoy
English female healer