Paula

Also spelled: Paola, Paulette, Paulina

Pronunciation: PAW-lə

♀ Female

Latin

Appears in:

Vintage Names

Biblical Names

Meaning

Small, humble

Origin

Latin

About Paula

Paula carries a gentle elegance, a name that feels both familiar and refined, rooted deeply in its Latin meaning of "small" or "humble." It's a choice for parents who appreciate a classic sensibility without venturing into overly ornate or trendy territory. While it shares its ancient lineage with many beloved names, Paula distinguishes itself by maintaining a quiet strength and widespread appeal across diverse cultures, particularly in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. This isn't a name that shouts for attention; rather, it offers a subtle grace, evoking a sense of enduring beauty and understated charm that will serve a child well through every stage of life.

Quick Facts

- Pronunciation: PAW-lə - Common nicknames: Paola, Paulette, Paulina - Popular in: Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Germany, United States

Popularity & Trends

Rarity:

Common

Trend:Classic

Peak decade:1970s

Era:Ancient, Medieval, Contemporary

Popular in:Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Germany, United States

Popularity Trends

Is Paula Right for Your Baby?

Paula is a Classic, Gentle, Elegant name for girls that suits parents looking for something classic and well-established. It works well internationally and is easy to recognise across cultures. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.

Syllables2

LengthMedium

International UseGlobal

PronunciationEasy

Cultural Associations

Biblical / Christian

Regions Where Paula Is Used

Romance / Latin

Name Vibe

Classic

Gentle

Elegant

Famous People Named Paula

Saint Paula (347–404), Roman matron and Christian saint
Paula Abdul (born 1962), American singer, dancer, choreographer, and television personality
Paula Radcliffe (born 1973), British long-distance runner and world record holder
Paula Rego (1935–2022), Portuguese-British visual artist
Paula Patton (born 1975), American actress

Nicknames & Short Forms

Pau

Pali

Paula in different fonts

PaulaDancing Script

PaulaCaveat

PaulaSatisfy

PaulaPacifico

PaulaGreat Vibes

Sibling Name Style

If you like Paula, you might also like names with these styles:

Classic

Traditional

Found in these lists

Panama Girl Names

Traditional Colombian Names

Bolivia Girl Names

Angola Girl Names

Latvia Girl Names

Traditional Honduras Names

Cape Verde Girl Names

Andorra Girl Names

Peruvian Girl Names

Ecuador Girl Names

São Tomé and Príncipe Girl Names

Traditional Paraguay Names

Argentine Girl Names

Venezuela Girl Names

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Girl Names

Traditional Dominican Republic Names

Popular Girl Names

Grenada Girl Names

Traditional Chilean Names

Saint Kitts and Nevis Girl Names

Uruguay Girl Names

Antigua and Barbuda Girl Names

Dominican Republic Girl Names

Colombian Girl Names

Traditional Panama Names

Barbados Girl Names

Guatemala Girl Names

Traditional Brazilian Names

Moldova Girl Names

Cuba Girl Names

Portuguese Girl Names

Girl Names

Suriname Girl Names

El Salvador Girl Names

Frequently Asked Questions About Paula

What is the origin and meaning of the name Paula?

Paula has Latin origins, stemming from the word meaning "small" or "humble." It's a name with ancient roots and a gentle, classic feel.

Is Paula a popular name today?

While a classic, Paula maintains popularity in several countries, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Brazil, as well as Germany and the United States.

What does Paula mean?

Paula means "Small, humble". It is derived from Latin.

What is the origin of Paula?

Paula originates from Latin. Its cultural origin is Latin.

Is Paula a male or female name?

Paula is a female name.

How do you pronounce Paula?

Paula is pronounced "PAW-lə".

What language does Paula come from?

Paula comes from Latin.

Is Paula a popular name?

Paula is considered a common name, and its popularity trend is classic.

What are variants of Paula?

Variants of Paula include Paola, Paulette, Paulina.

What are nicknames for Paula?

Common nicknames for Paula include Pau, Pali.

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