Varnell is an unusual and distinctive name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh surname "Ap Varnel," which means "son of Varnel." The name Varnel itself is believed to be derived from the Welsh word "gwernen" meaning "white" or "fair-haired."
The origins of the name can be traced back to Wales, where it was often used as a patronymic surname, indicating that the bearer was the son of someone named Varnel. Over time, the name evolved and became associated with various regions in Wales.
One notable figure associated with the name is Sir Richard Varnell, who was a Welsh judge and politician during the 17th century. He served as a member of parliament for several Welsh constituencies and was known for his strong support of Welsh language and culture.
Today, Varnell remains a rare but intriguing name choice. It has a unique sound and an interesting historical background that sets it apart from more common names. Despite its Welsh origins, the name Varnell is not widely used in Wales or other parts of the UK. Instead, it appears to be more popular in other English-speaking countries such as Australia and Canada.
In conclusion, Varnell is a distinctive and historic name with Welsh origins. It has a unique meaning related to fairness or whiteness, and its associated history adds an interesting dimension to this rare name choice.
The name Varnell has been present in the United States since at least 1915, with a total of 98 babies receiving this unique moniker over the years.
The name's popularity fluctuated throughout the early to mid-20th century. The most popular year for the name was 1943 and 1949, each with six births. On the other hand, there were periods where the name was not given at all for several years, such as between 1957 and 1968.
Despite these fluctuations, Varnell remains a distinctive choice that has been passed down through generations of families in the United States. Its rarity contributes to its uniqueness and could make it an attractive option for parents looking for something different.