Paula - Name Meaning and Origin

The girl's name Paula \pa(u)-la\ is pronounced PAW-lah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "small". Feminine form of Paul. A Roman name and saint's name. Paula was used among early Christians , probably to honor Saint Paul. It was not used widely in English-speaking countries until the 20th century. In the meantime, it was mainly used as a German name. Actress Paulette Godard; singer Paula Abdul.

Paula has 19 variant forms: Paola, Paolina, Paule, Pauletta, Paulette, Pauli, Paulie, Paulina, Pauline, Paulita, Paulla, Paullette, Pauly, Pavia, Pavla, Pola, Polina, Pollie and Polly.

Baby names that sound like Paula are Baila, Bayla, Beula, Pali and Pella.

Paula is a very popular female first name and a popular surname (source: 1990 U.S. Census). Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the girl's name Paula. Click here to compare Paula with related baby names.