Ursula

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ˈɜːr.sjʊ.lə/

Ursula: 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".

Parents seeking a meaningful feminine name often discover Ursula, drawn to its Latin heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Ursula

Quick facts about Ursula
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 “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 Ursula

Ursula is pronounced /ˈɜːr.sjʊ.lə/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Ursul-a
  2. Say it like: "URSUL-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Ursula enjoys international appeal, used in 11 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishspanishnorwegianicelandicswedishdanishfinnishdutchold danishgermanold swedish
Frequently Asked Questions About Ursula
What does the name Ursula mean?
Ursula 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 Ursula 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, Ursula's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Ursula?
Ursula is a latin name. The name traces back to URSUS > ursa. From its latin roots, Ursula spread to become common in english, spanish, norwegian, icelandic and 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.
Is Ursula a boy or girl name?
Ursula 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, Ursula 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 Ursula?
Ursula is pronounced "/ˈɜːr.sjʊ.lə/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ursula is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, norwegian, 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 Ursula can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ursula?
Ursula is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ursula offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ursula'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, Ursula holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Ursula commonly used?
Ursula spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, norwegian, and 8 other traditions. Though latin in origin, Ursula found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Ursula, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. 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 Ursula into their naming traditions. A child named Ursula 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, Ursula is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ursula?
Ursula carries associations with 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 “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." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Ursula 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 Ursula sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ursula 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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