Overview of Cornish Names
Cornish names are the names used by the Cornish people, who are native to Cornwall in the south-west of England. Cornish names are typically derived from the Cornish language, which is a Celtic language that is closely related to Welsh and Breton. These names often have a unique sound and spelling, making them distinct from other British names.
History of Cornish Names
The Cornish language was spoken in Cornwall until the 18th century, when it began to decline in popularity. This decline was due to a number of factors, including the influence of English culture in Cornwall and the rise of the Methodist movement. As a result, many Cornish names were replaced with English or Anglicized versions.
Common Cornish Names
The most common Cornish names are those that derive from the Cornish language, such as Trevelyan, Trelawney, and Tregear. Other popular Cornish names include Carne, Trevorrow, and Trevaskis. Additionally, many Cornish names have been Anglicized over time, such as John becoming Jack or Jenkin becoming Jenkins.
Variations of Cornish Names
In some cases, Cornish names may have multiple spellings or variations. For example, the name Trevelyan can be spelled Trevelyen, Trevelean, or Trevelein. Similarly, the name Trelawney can be spelled Trelawny or Trelawne.
Modern Uses of Cornish Names
Today, Cornish names are still common in Cornwall, although they are often Anglicized versions of the original name. Additionally, many Cornish names have been adopted by people from other parts of the world, particularly in the United States. For example, the name Trevelyan is now commonly used in the United States, although it is still rare in the United Kingdom.
