Ursulina: 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".
Ursulina has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Ursulina
Quick facts about Ursulina
Origin
Latin
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Uncommon
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 Ursulina
Ursulina is pronounced /ˈɜːr.suː.lɪ.nə/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ursul-in-a
Say it like: "URSUL-IN-A"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Ursulina enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishspanishitaliandutch
Name Relationships
Ursulina 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.
Ursulina 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 Ursulina 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. Ursulina 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 Ursulina?
Ursulina is a latin name. The name traces back to URSUS > ursa. From its latin roots, Ursulina spread to become common in english, spanish, italian, dutch. 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. Ursulina developed as a form of Ursula, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Ursulina a boy or girl name?
Ursulina 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, Ursulina 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 Ursulina?
Ursulina is pronounced "/ˈɜːr.suː.lɪ.nə/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ursulina is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, italian, 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 Ursulina can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ursulina?
Ursulina is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Ursulina gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Ursulina'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, Ursulina holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Ursulina?
Ursulina is a form of Ursula. Over time, Ursula developed into several variations, with Ursulina 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 Ursulina might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and spanish, Ursulina may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Ursulina commonly used?
Ursulina spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, italian, and 1 other traditions. Though latin in origin, Ursulina found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Ursulina, 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 Ursulina into their naming traditions. A child named Ursulina 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, Ursulina is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ursulina?
Ursulina 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 Ursulina 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 Ursulina sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ursulina 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.