Denzel

The Denzell family armorial

Denzel is a Cornish name that originated as a surname meaning "from Denzell manor (which is in Cornwall)." Denzil may have been an original spelling. Denzel was given to 186 boys in 2015. It is worn by famous actor Denzell Washington, who is actually Denzel Jr. His father was named Denzel after the doctor who delivered him - presumably Denzel was his surname, and (also presumably, the doctor was Caucasian). He has said that his father's name is pronounced DEN-zell, while the actor's name is commonly pronounced den-ZELL.

Denzel can be traced back to a John Denzel of Cornwall who died in 1535. He was Attorney General to Elizabeth of York, the Queen Consort, and his regal home was the "manor of Denzell," otherwise known as Lanherne, in St. Mawgan Parish. This historic site once belonged to the noble Arundell family.

Denzel Whitaker is another actor who was named after Denzel Washington, Denzel White and Denzel Curry are rappers, Denzel Bowles is a basketball player who has played in Lebanon, and Denzel Valentine is an NBA professional basketball player. Denzel Devall is a linebacker who has been on the coaching staff for the Alabama Crimson Tide team, Denzelle Good, Denzel Perryman and Denzel Rice are NFL players.

Denzel Washington was born in 1954 and the other namesakes mentioned were all born after that date, most in the 1990's. One has to wonder if, as in the case of Denzel Whitaker, they were named after Mr. Washington.