'Cordelia' possibly originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cor', where 'cor' meant 'heart'.

'Cordelia' was used in medieval and early modern sources (via Latinized and Old French forms) and was popularized in English by Shakespeare's use of the name in the early 17th century, becoming established as the modern English given name 'Cordelia'.

Initially associated with the element 'heart' (or with older Celtic-name origins in some theories), over time it evolved into a proper feminine personal name, often carrying connotations of fidelity and goodness due to literary association.