Ursine: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear".It derives from the Latin word "URSUS > ursa".
Ursine is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear". 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 Ursine
Quick facts about Ursine
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 “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
URSUS > ursa
How to Pronounce Ursine
Ursine is pronounced /ˈɜːr.saɪn/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ursin-e
Say it like: "URSIN-E"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Ursine is predominantly used in norwegian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
norwegian
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Ursine is Ursinus, sharing the same Latin etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Ursine is a variant form of Ursina, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Ursine means "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family.". The name comes from URSUS > ursa. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ursine for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Ursine's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Ursine?
Ursine is a latin name. The name traces back to URSUS > ursa. The name remains closely tied to norwegian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Ursine developed as a form of Ursina, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Ursine a boy or girl name?
Ursine 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, Ursine has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ursine?
Ursine is pronounced "/ˈɜːr.saɪn/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ursine is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Ursine can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ursine?
Ursine is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ursine offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ursine'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 “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Ursine holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Ursine?
Ursine is a form of Ursina. Over time, Ursina developed into several variations, with Ursine emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. The feminine version Ursinus 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 “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Ursine might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In norwegian, Ursine may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Ursine commonly used?
Ursine is used primarily in norwegian naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Ursine found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ursine into their naming traditions. A child named Ursine 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, Ursine is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.