Poulina: 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, Poulina 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 Poulina
Quick facts about Poulina
Origin
Latin
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately 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 Poulina
Poulina is pronounced /puːˈliː.nə/(French)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Poul-in-a
Say it like: "POUL-IN-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across swedish, danish, and faroese speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
swedishdanishfaroese
Name Relationships
Poulina is an affectionate diminutive of Paula, commonly used in swedish speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.
The masculine counterpart to Poulina is Paulinus, sharing the same Latin etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Poulina 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 Poulina 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, Poulina'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 Poulina?
Poulina is a latin name. The name traces back to parvus > parvulus > PAULUS. From its latin roots, Poulina spread to become common in swedish, danish, faroese. 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 Poulina a boy or girl name?
Poulina 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, Poulina 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 Poulina?
Poulina is pronounced "/puːˈliː.nə/". This pronunciation follows fr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Poulina is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in swedish, danish, faroese, 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 Poulina can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
What are common nicknames for Poulina?
Poulina is commonly used as a nickname for Paula. As a diminutive of Paula, Poulina started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Paula go by Poulina throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In latin cultures, using Poulina as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Poulina as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Poulina 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 Poulina?
Poulina is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Poulina offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Poulina'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, Poulina holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Poulina?
Poulina is related to Paulinus (feminine). The feminine version Paulinus 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 Poulina might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In swedish and danish, Poulina may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Poulina commonly used?
Poulina is common in swedish and danish and faroese naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Poulina found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Poulina, 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 Poulina into their naming traditions. A child named Poulina 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, Poulina is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Poulina?
Poulina 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 Poulina 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 Poulina sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Poulina often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In swedish 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.