Girl Names
Paula
PaulaQuick facts
- Name
- Paula
- Gender
- Girl
- Meaning
- small
- Origin
- Feminine variation of Paul, Latin
- Pronunciation
- Pau-la, where the first syllable sounds like the word 'paw'.
- US rank
- #855
- Nameville rank
- #2424
The name Paula exudes a charming familiarity that is both timeless and stylish. Its melodic sound gives it a pleasant lightness and the ability to feel comfortable in various cultural contexts. Paula remains an impressive feminine name that carries a hint of nostalgia.
Character & impression
Paula is often associated with qualities such as warmth, creativity, and a balanced nature. Its sound conveys friendliness and reliability, making the name a charming choice for a girl. Paula radiates a subtle strength that is both attractive and inspiring.
Meaning & origin of Paula
The roots of Paula lie in the Latin name form Paul, which means 'small'. The feminine variant is not only common in the Western world but is also very popular in cultures such as Puerto Rico. This origin gives the name a universal appeal and a sense of security.
Popular name combinations
Notable bearers of the name include the talented singer Paula Abdul, comedian Paula Poundstone, and various fictional characters like Paula Proctor from the series 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend'. These personalities showcase the versatility of the name and its connection to art and entertainment. Sibling names like Paul and Paula could create a harmonious bond within the family.
Good to know
The pronunciation of Paula can vary depending on the language, with the English version being 'PAW-la' and the Portuguese form 'POW-la'. The name also offers numerous international variants, such as Pawlina in Poland or Paoletta in Portugal. Nicknames like Paulie or Pau are also possible, adding a playful touch to the name.
Overall, Paula offers a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. The name is an excellent choice for parents seeking a classic yet contemporary name that evokes positive associations and fits well in various cultural contexts.
Popularity
| 🇺🇸 US | #855 | 2025 |
| 🏴 England | #976 | 2021 |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | #39 | 2025 |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | #9 | 2023 |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | #110 | 2021 |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | #93 | 2024 |
| 🇦🇹 Austria | #42 | 2024 |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | #146 | 2020 |
| 🇨🇱 Chile | #98 | 2021 |