Paulinus

Boy Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/pɔˈliː.nəs/

Paulinus: a male 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".

Paulinus is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Paulinus

Quick facts about Paulinus
OriginLatin
GenderBoy name
PopularityUncommon

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 Paulinus

Paulinus is pronounced /pɔˈliː.nəs/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Paul-in-us
  2. Say it like: "PAUL-IN-US"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Paulinus is predominantly used in latin speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

latin
Name Relationships

Paulinus is an affectionate diminutive of Paulus, commonly used in latin speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paulinus
What does the name Paulinus mean?
Paulinus 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 Paulinus for boys 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. Paulinus offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. 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 Paulinus?
Paulinus is a latin name. The name traces back to parvus > parvulus > PAULUS. The name remains closely tied to latin naming traditions while occasionally appearing in 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 Paulinus a boy or girl name?
Paulinus is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In latin tradition, Paulinus has historically been given to boys. 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 son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Paulinus?
Paulinus is pronounced "/pɔˈliː.nəs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Paulinus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Paulinus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Paulinus?
Paulinus is commonly used as a nickname for Paulus. As a diminutive of Paulus, Paulinus started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Paulus go by Paulinus throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In latin cultures, using Paulinus as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Paulinus as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Paulinus on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Paulinus?
Paulinus is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Paulinus gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Paulinus'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 boys' names, Paulinus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Paulinus commonly used?
Paulinus is used primarily in latin naming traditions. The name originated in latin culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. 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 Paulinus into their naming traditions. A child named Paulinus 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, Paulinus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Paulinus?
Paulinus 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 Paulinus 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 Paulinus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Paulinus often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In latin 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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