Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Cordel

      Origin

      Portuguese, Brazil

      Meaning

      String or Cord, Refers to Literature

      Variations

      Cordell, Cordelia, Cordelie
      The name Cordel originates from the Portuguese language, specifically within the cultural context of Brazil. It translates to string or cord, and is closely associated with a unique form of literature known as literatura de cordel. This literary tradition involves the production of pamphlets that feature poetry and stories, typically printed on low-cost paper and hung on strings or cords for display and sale. The term embodies both the physical aspect of how the works are presented and the binding nature of storytelling in Brazilian culture.

      Historically, Cordel literature has roots in the oral traditions of the Northeast region of Brazil, drawing inspiration from European troubadour poetry and the folk ballads of the Middle Ages. The genre emerged prominently in the late 19th century as a means to disseminate literature among the largely illiterate population. Poets would compose narratives that addressed social issues, folklore, and everyday life, creating a profound connection with the common people. Notably, the colorful illustrations that accompany these pamphlets, often crafted by local artists, serve to attract attention and enhance the storytelling experience, solidifying Cordel’s place in Brazil's cultural heritage.

      In contemporary Brazil, Cordel literature continues to thrive, adapting to modern themes while preserving its traditional essence. It serves as an important platform for addressing current social and political issues, reflecting the dynamism of Brazilian society. Cordel has also gained recognition beyond its regional roots, with many authors experimenting with formats and distribution methods, including digital platforms. Furthermore, the genre is increasingly celebrated in academic and artistic circles, where it is analyzed for its linguistic, cultural, and historical significance, ensuring that the legacy of Cordel literature remains vibrant and relevant in today’s literary landscape.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Cordel.
      John

      John

      This is the most common name for a child of a Cordel.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1911 is when there were the most people born with the first name Cordel.

      Explore the origins of another name.