Cornelius

/kɔːrˈniːliəs/ noun

Definition

A male given name of Latin origin, or reference to various historical figures bearing this name.

Etymology

From Latin 'Cornelius', a Roman family name possibly derived from 'cornu' meaning 'horn', suggesting strength or prominence. The name was borne by a prominent Roman gens (family) and later adopted by early Christians, including the centurion Cornelius in the New Testament.

Kelly Says

Cornelius was the first Gentile convert to Christianity according to Acts 10, making this name historically pivotal in the spread of early Christianity beyond Jewish communities. The Roman military association (horn = strength) combined with Christian significance made it popular across cultures for centuries.

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