Paula

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ˈpɔːlə/

Paula: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest". It derives from the Latin word "parvus > parvulus > PAULUS".

In Latin tradition, Paula holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Latin culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Paula

Quick facts about Paula
OriginLatin
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

parvus > parvulus > PAULUS

How to Pronounce Paula

Paula is pronounced /ˈpɔːlə/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Paul-a
  2. Say it like: "PAWLOOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Paula enjoys international appeal, used in 19 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, romanian, latvian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishromanianlatvianspanishcatalannorwegianicelandiccroatianportugueseswedishdanishfaroesefinnishgreenlandicpolishdutchhungarian (magyar)lithuaniangerman
Name Relationships

The masculine counterpart to Paula is Paul, Paulis, Pauls, Pāvils, Pablo, Paulo, Paweł, Pavao, sharing the same Latin etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paula
What does the name Paula mean?
Paula means "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.". The name comes from parvus > parvulus > PAULUS. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Paula for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Paula's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL / RELIGION (POPES) / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Paula?
Paula is a latin name. The name traces back to parvus > parvulus > PAULUS. From its latin roots, Paula spread to become common in english, romanian, latvian, spanish and other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Paula a boy or girl name?
Paula is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Paula has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Paula?
Paula is pronounced "/ˈpɔːlə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Paula is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, romanian, latvian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Paula can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Paula?
Paula is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Paula offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Paula's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Paula holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Paula?
Paula is related to Paul, Paulis, Pauls, Pāvils, Pablo, Paulo, Paweł, Pavao (feminine). The feminine version Paul, Paulis, Pauls, Pāvils, Pablo, Paulo, Paweł, Pavao carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Paula might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and romanian, Paula may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Paula commonly used?
Paula spans multiple cultures, including english, romanian, latvian, and 16 other traditions. Though latin in origin, Paula found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Paula, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Paula into their naming traditions. A child named Paula will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Paula is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Paula?
Paula carries associations with BIBLICAL / RELIGION (POPES) / RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Paula originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Paula sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Paula often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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