Pennel

Pennel is a British surname derived from the given name "Pernel," a medieval form of "Petronilla," itself derived from the Latin name "Petronius." The surname has its origins in Medieval England and is found mainly in the southern regions of the country.

Origins and Meaning

The surname Pennel likely originated as a patronymic, indicating "son of Pernel." The name Pernel was popular in medieval England and may have been used to honour the well-known Roman Christian martyr, Saint Petronilla.

Distribution and Variants

The surname Pennel is relatively uncommon, and its bearers can mainly be found in regions historically associated with ancient Anglo-Saxon settlements, such as the South-East and South-West of England. Variants of the name include Pennell, Penelle, and Parnell.

Notable Individuals

One notable figure with the surname Pennel is Sir Joe Pennel, a renowned British artist known for his watercolour paintings that captured the beauty of the English countryside during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

References

For more information on the surname Pennel and its historical significance, one may refer to genealogical records, local history archives, and academic studies on the naming practices of medieval Britain.

There are approximately 55 people named Pennel in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Pennel.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Ian
  • James
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Barbara
  • Helene
  • Lorraine
  • Lynda
  • Patricia

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