Paula - Female Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Latin
- Meaning
- Small, humble, little
- Pronunciation
- POW-lah
- Gender
- Female
- Variations
- Paola, Pauline, Paulette
- Notable Namesakes
- Paula Hawkins (British author of The Girl on the Train)
- Paula Abdul (American singer, dancer, and television personality)
- Paula Deen (American celebrity chef and television personality)
- Paula Radcliffe (British long-distance runner and marathon world record holder)
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Etymology & Heritage
The name Paula traces back to the Latin Paulus, translated to small, humble, or little. As the feminine form of Paul, the name became popular with early Christians, notably being the name of several saints who embodied the virtues of humility and devotion.
From its Latin origins, the name Paula permeated across Europe, particularly gaining popularity within Romance languages such as Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. In each of these languages, the name maintains its original tender strength and quiet grace, adapting seamlessly to different linguistic traditions while preserving its essential character.
Character & Essence
This definition subtly speaks to a quality of quiet strength and humility that can be found within the name. Paula carries an inherently endearing sense of humility and understatement, reflecting qualities that speak to inner resilience rather than outward display.
The name beautifully encapsulates the strength and resilience often found in those who don't seek the limelight, but rather excel in their humility and quiet determination. It suggests a person of substance who leads through example rather than proclamation.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
Overall, the name Paula offers a combination of historical richness and cross-cultural appeal. In popular culture, many influential women bear the name Paula, and their impacts have different shades across various fields, from literature to entertainment to sports.
The name maintains its relevance across generations, subtly reflecting the qualities of the bearer while carrying forward its legacy of quiet grace and understated strength. Its widespread adoption across different cultures speaks to its universal appeal and timeless character.