Cornish Surnames
- Kitto
Origin:
Cornish, diminutive of Christopher, Greek and LatinMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Kitto updates Dad Name Christopher with a trendy o-ending short form. Use it as an honor name or an original nickname.
- Penrose
Origin:
Cornish and Welsh place name and surnameMeaning:
"top of the heath"Description:
Penrose – an ancient locational surname derived from several villages in Cornwall, Wales, and the Welsh border country of England – might work as a first name, although the "Rose" syllable might lead the uninitiated to assume it's a female name. As a middle name, however, it would make for a surprising and distinguished choice. A male Penrose could be called Pen/Penn, Ross or Roe for short.
- Teague
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"bard, poet"Description:
If you like the idea of Tadhg but don't feel like the spelling works where you are, Teague might work as an alternative. It could also fit the bill if you're seeking a unique single-syllable first or middle name for your son.
- Argus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"watchful guardian"Description:
In mythology, a creature with a hundred eyes, making it a better name for a camera than a baby.
- Moon
Origin:
Word nameDescription:
The original oddball celebrity baby name, via Frank Zappa's daughter Moon Unit, who claims she's always liked it.
- Carew
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"fort near a slope"Description:
Noted bearers of this surname include a metaphysical poet, a Nobel Prize winner, and a baseball Hall of Famer, so there's plenty of hero-name inspiration.
- Tremaine
Description:
Tremaine (also spelled Tremain, Tremayne, or Tremaigne) derives from a Cornish place name and surname meaning 'stone town' or 'settlement with stone houses,' from the elements 'tre' (homestead/settlement) and 'maen' (stone). Following the pattern of many surnames, it transitioned to use as a given name in the 20th century. Tremaine gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s through the 1990s. The name reflects the broader trend of adopting surnames as first names, particularly those with attractive sounds or spelling variations. While never among the most common names, Tremaine has maintained consistent recognition across diverse communities in the United States, with various spelling variants adding to its distinctive character.
- Penna
Description:
Penna is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Latin word 'penna' meaning 'feather' or 'quill,' suggesting qualities of lightness and creativity. Alternatively, it could be an abbreviated form of the Italian surname Pennacchio or a variant of Penn. As a first name, Penna remains exceedingly rare in most English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique. The name carries a soft, melodic quality while maintaining masculine undertones. While lacking widespread popularity, Penna might appeal to those drawn to literary references (through its connection to writing implements) or names with Italian flair. Its rarity ensures individuality for a child bearing this name.
- Glynn
Description:
Glynn is a masculine name with Welsh and Irish origins, derived from the word 'glin' meaning 'valley' or 'glen.' It can be both a surname and first name, sometimes used as a variation of Glenn or Flynn. In Welsh contexts, it relates to geographical features, literally referring to someone who lived in or near a valley. Glynn has maintained modest usage throughout the 20th century, particularly in Celtic regions and their diaspora communities. The name has a concise, strong sound while maintaining a touch of Celtic mystique. Notable bearers include various athletes, musicians, and actors, though it has never reached mainstream popularity. The distinctive double 'n' spelling gives this short name a visual interest while honoring its Celtic linguistic roots.
- Urien
Origin:
WelshMeaning:
"of privileged birth"Description:
Too close to the name of a bodily fluid.
- Jewell
Description:
Jewell is a feminine name derived from the English word 'jewel,' referring to a precious stone or gem. This name embodies qualities of beauty, rarity, and value. Originally used as a surname for jewelers or those who worked with precious stones, Jewell transitioned to first name usage in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1910s and 1920s but has since become less common. Jewell offers parents a distinctive choice with built-in symbolism of preciousness and worth. Its vintage quality appeals to those seeking names with classic charm and substantial meaning. The name can also be spelled as 'Jewel,' though the double-L version adds a traditional touch.
- Tremayne
Description:
Tremayne is a masculine name of Cornish origin, derived from a place name and surname meaning 'stone town' or 'dwelling by the stones' in the ancient Celtic language of Cornwall. The name combines the Cornish elements 'tre' meaning homestead or town, and 'maen' meaning stone. As a given name, Tremayne gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting the era's interest in distinctive surnames adapted as first names. It carries a sophisticated, somewhat aristocratic quality while maintaining a strong masculine feel. The name has associations with Cornwall's rich cultural heritage and rugged landscape. Though never extremely common, Tremayne appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with authentic Celtic roots and a melodious three-syllable rhythm that balances uniqueness with pronunciation ease.
- Genn
Description:
Genn is a distinctive feminine name with Celtic roots. It's a shortened form of names like Geneva or Genevieve, or it can be derived from the Welsh word for 'white' or 'fair'. Less commonly, it may be a variant spelling of Jen, a diminutive of Jennifer. The name carries a sense of simplicity and strength despite its brief structure. Genn remains relatively uncommon in most English-speaking countries, giving it a unique quality for those who bear it. Its rarity means that a woman named Genn often stands out, and the name isn't associated with particular time periods or trends, giving it a timeless quality.
- Angove
- Angwin
- Annear
- Bennetto
- Bligh
- Bolitho
- Bosanko