Darnel as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Darnel

What is the meaning of the name Darnel ?

The baby name Darnel is a Male name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced DAR-nəl (IPA: /ˈdɑːrnəl/).

Darnel is English in Origin.

Darnel is an English given name with surname roots. Etymologists cite two sources: the Middle English plant term darnel, from Old French darnelle, referring to the intoxicating ryegrass known as “tares”; and a locative surname related to Darnall/Darnell, from Old English derne “hidden, secret” + halh “nook, recess,” meaning “hidden nook.” Both strands entered medieval records, with the streamlined single‑l spelling later used as a forename.

Used chiefly in the English‑speaking world since the mid‑20th century, Darnel remains uncommon but recognizable, seeing particular adoption in the United States alongside the broader trend of surnames as given names. It is predominantly masculine but occasionally unisex. Principal variants include Darnell (most common), Darnelle (feminine), and the surname forms Darnall and Darnal; related short forms such as Dar and Nel occur in use. The name thus carries either a botanical sense or a quietly evocative “hidden place” meaning.