Úrsúla

Girl Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ˈuːr.su.lə/

Úrsúla: 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".

Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla

Quick facts about Úrsúla
OriginLatin
GenderGirl 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 “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 Úrsúla

Úrsúla is pronounced /ˈuːr.su.lə/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Úrs-úla
  2. Say it like: "ÚRS-ÚLA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

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

icelandic
Name Relationships

Úrsúla is a variant form of Ursula, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Úrsúla
What does the name Úrsúla mean?
Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla 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. Úrsúla 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 RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Úrsúla?
Úrsúla is a latin name. The name traces back to URSUS > ursa. The name remains closely tied to icelandic 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. Úrsúla developed as a form of Ursula, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Úrsúla a boy or girl name?
Úrsúla 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, Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla?
Úrsúla is pronounced "/ˈuːr.su.lə/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Úrsúla is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Úrsúla can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Úrsúla?
Úrsúla is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Úrsúla gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Úrsúla'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, Úrsúla holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Úrsúla?
Úrsúla is a form of Ursula. Over time, Ursula developed into several variations, with Úrsúla emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. 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 Úrsúla might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In icelandic, Úrsúla may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Úrsúla commonly used?
Úrsúla is used primarily in icelandic naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla into their naming traditions. A child named Úrsúla 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, Úrsúla is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Úrsúla?
Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla 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 Úrsúla sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Úrsúla often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In icelandic 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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