Purnell

Purnell is a surname that originated from a nickname, derived from the Old French word 'pernel' or 'pernellet', meaning 'little rock' or 'small stone'. It was likely given to someone who lived near a rocky outcrop or who had a sturdy, rock-like build. The name evolved into a surname in England and Ireland, particularly in areas with Norman influence. Over time, like many surnames, it began to be used as a given name, though it remains much more common as a family name.

The transition of surnames to given names is a common phenomenon in English-speaking cultures, often occurring when a family name is adopted to honor an ancestor or to maintain a distinctive identity. Purnell, as a given name, has never achieved widespread popularity but has maintained a niche presence, particularly in the United States.