Holding steady.
Popularity of Petronella since 1884
Babies named Petronella per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1916, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Petronella's real moment was 1884.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 22 |
| 1910s | 142 |
| 1920s | 96 |
| 1930s | 36 |
| 1940s | 29 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Petronella is a refined and historically rich feminine name of Latin origin, meaning "small rock". In the United States, it first appeared in Social Security records in 1884, which also marks its peak year of usage. Since then, it has maintained a stable, low-frequency trajectory, never breaking into widespread popularity. The name has a long European tradition, particularly in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, and is associated with Saint Petronella, an early Christian martyr. Despite its rarity, Petronella offers a distinctive alternative to more common rock-related names like Petra or Peter. Its absence from any top state lists reflects its niche status, but for parents seeking a name with ancient roots and a charming, vintage feel, Petronella remains an enduring choice.
Petronella is a feminine diminutive of the Latin name Petronius, a Roman family name derived from "petra" (rock, stone). The name was borne by a 1st-century Roman martyr, Saint Petronella, traditionally considered a daughter of Saint Peter. It became popular in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, often spelled Petronella or Pernilla, and was introduced to English-speaking countries through the 19th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nella, Nellie, Pella, Petra, Ronnie
Variants: Pernilla, Pieronella, Petronilla
Sibling names for Petronella
Names that share Petronella's style, for a brother or sister.
