Paula

Meaning & Origin

Meaning: Small; Humble

Background: The name Paula originates from the Latin name 'Paula,' which is a feminine form of 'Paulus,' meaning 'small' or 'humble.' In Spanish and Portuguese, the name retains this meaning and is commonly used in various contexts.

At a glance

Quick stats based on the history of this name.

Lifetime rank
#139
Total births
281,450
Most popular decade
1960s (242,100 births)
10-year trend
↑ Rising (+242 ranks)
Years in Top 100
32
First recorded year
1880

Gender usage

0.3% male 99.7% female

Stats by gender

Male

First year
1917
First year births
5
First year rank
#3,981
Peak year
1958
Peak year births
27
Peak rank
#1,511
Most recent year
2023
Recent year births
6
Recent rank
#10,812

Female

First year
1880
First year births
9
First year rank
#580
Peak year
1963
Peak year births
10,151
Peak rank
#42
Most recent year
2024
Recent year births
374
Recent rank
#751

Births over time

Number of babies given this name each year.

Rank over time

Popularity rank by year (1 = most popular).

Related links