What is the biblical significance of the name Paula?

While Paula itself is not in the Bible, it is the feminine version of Paul, the name of the Apostle who wrote much of the New Testament.

Is Paula a common name today?

Paula is considered a classic name; while its peak popularity in the U.S. was in the mid-20th century, it remains a consistent choice globally.

What are some common nicknames for Paula?

Common nicknames include Polly, Pauly, and sometimes Lina or Lulu.

Name meaning & originPaula

/PAW-luh/

LatinGirl

Make a name keepsake

Paula is a Latin girl's name pronounced /PAW-luh/. The name Paula is a graceful classic that literally translates to 'small' or 'humble'.

Share this name

WhatsApp Pinterest

Meaning of Paula

The name Paula is a graceful classic that literally translates to 'small' or 'humble'.

It is the feminine form of the Roman name Paulus, which was a cognomen in Ancient Rome. The name gained significant historical prominence through Saint Paula of Rome, a 4th-century disciple of Saint Jerome. Its roots in the Latin word 'paulus' signify modesty and smallness, qualities often valued in early Christian tradition.

Origin: Latin
Pronunciation: /PAW-luh/

Cultural background

Paula is a timeless and widely used name throughout Europe, North America, and South America, particularly in Spanish, Portuguese, German, and English-speaking countries.

Variations & nicknames

Paola
Paulette
Paulina
Pavla
Polly
Pauletta

Famous people named Paula

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Paula Abdul
Grammy-winning singer, dancer, and television personality
Music · Modern
Paula Rego
Renowned Portuguese-British visual artist
Art · 20th-21st Century
Paula Radcliffe
Former world record holder in the women's marathon
Sport · Modern
Paula Hawkins
Best-selling author of 'The Girl on the Train'
Literature · Modern
Paula Prentiss
American actress known for 'The Stepford Wives'
Film · 20th Century

Frequently asked about Paula

What is the biblical significance of the name Paula?: While Paula itself is not in the Bible, it is the feminine version of Paul, the name of the Apostle who wrote much of the New Testament.
Is Paula a common name today?: Paula is considered a classic name; while its peak popularity in the U.S. was in the mid-20th century, it remains a consistent choice globally.
What are some common nicknames for Paula?: Common nicknames include Polly, Pauly, and sometimes Lina or Lulu.

Love Paula? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Latin names each week — free, no spam.

By signing up you agree to get these name emails. We use your email only for them; unsubscribe any time from privacy requests. See our privacy policy. 18+ only.

Compare Paula with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Latin names

See all Latin names

Find more names like Paula