Vernel is an American given name of French origin, derived from the surname Vernet, which is rooted in the Occitan word 'vern', meaning fern. It gained popularity in the U.S. during the mid-20th century, likely introduced by French immigrants or those with French ancestry. Traditionally associated with masculinity, Vernel could also be considered unisex due to its botanical origins. Its low popularity makes it a unique choice for parents seeking distinctive names. The most common spelling is Vernel, though variants like Vernell exist.