Paula

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1. Paula name meaning and origin

The name Paula is the feminine name, originating from the Latin Roman surname 'Paulus,' which means 'small' or 'humble' in the Latin language. This ancient is associated with apostle Paul (originally Saul of Tarsus) in Christian tradition, contributing significantly to its adoption following the spread of Christianity.

Paula has achieved immense popularity across many English-speaking countries like the US during the mid-20th century. The name reflects the historical influence of Roman culture and Christian heritage, demonstrating how personal names often preserve linguistic and cultural elements across generations. While simple in structure, Paula carries the weight of its classical origins, embodying the virtues of humility that its etymology suggests.

Paula

References:

Paula Name Meaning and Paula Family History at FamilySearch

2. Paula name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Paula

United States

United Kingdom

Paula is predominantly a feminine name with origins in Latin, meaning "small" or "humble." While primarily used for women in both the United States and United Kingdom, it has occasionally been given to men, though this usage is relatively uncommon. The name gained significant popularity during the mid-20th century but has seen a gradual decline in recent decades.

Paula has notable cultural references, including influential figures like Paula Abdul and Paula Deen in the US, and Paula Radcliffe in the UK. Though less common for contemporary newborns, it remains a classic name with elegant simplicity that transcends trends while maintaining its dignified character across English-speaking countries.

3. Paula in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Paula has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Paula - She is a main character in María Irene Fornés' play “Fefu and her friends”. She is believed to be a lover of Cecilia who became distant from each other.

Paula Meminger - From Markus Zusak’s “The Book Thief.” She is the mother of Liesel.

Paula Spencer - She is the abused wife and the narrator in Rody Doyle’s novel “The Woman Who Walked into Doors”.

Paula O'Neill - A character in the book, “To Be the Best”. She is the granddaughter of Emma Harte.

Films and Televisions:

Paula Rogers - Portrayed by Loretta Young in the 1952 film “Paula”, she is yearning to conceive and give birth to a child of her own.

Paula McFadden - As Marsha Mason's character in the 1977 film “The Goodbye Girl”, she is a single mother and former Broadway dancer.

Paula Pokrifki - A character played by Debra Winger in the film “An Officer and a Gentleman”. She is known as fun, feisty, and a little flirty.

Paula Denny - From the British-Irish TV series ‘Paula.’ She finds herself in immense trouble after meeting the handyman James Moorcroft.

Paula - An antagonist in the TV sitcom “Dog With a Blog.” She is played by Allison Bills.

Paula Hutchinson - From the animated series Rocko's Modern Life, she is a minor character who appears as a dentist, cashier, surgeon, veterinarian, and more.

Paula - Played by Brittany O'Grady in the first season of The White Lotus, she is one of the guests in the hotel.

Paula - F A character from the TV mystery series “Down Cemetery Road”.

Video Games:

Paula - A playable character and PSI master in the 1994 Nintendo video game EarthBound.

4. Celebrities with the Name Paula

Aside from fiction, the name Paula has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Saint Paula of Rome

An ancient Roman Christian saint who lived from 347 to 404 AD.

Saint Paula of Rome

Image source: Wikipedia

Paula Dei Mansi

Jewish A seasoned scribe and scholar from Verona, Italy. She is considered the earliest known female scribe.

Paula Hitler

The younger sister and the only full sibling of Adolf Hitler.

Contemporary Celebrities:

Paula Abdul

American singer, dancer, songwriter, and television personality. Best known for several pop hits, like “Forever Your Girl” and “Opposites Attract.”

Paula Deen

American celebrity chef and author who promotes the American Southern cuisines through cookbooks and TV programs.

Paula Patton

American actress known for her roles in action and drama films like Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol and Precious.

Paula Radcliffe

British long-distance runner who held the women's world record in the marathon.

Paula Poundstone

American stand-up comedian, author, and actress. She is also a panelist on NPR's “Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!”.

Paula Hawkins

She is a British author best known for her psychological thriller novel “The Girl on the Train.”

Paula Cole

An American singer-songwriter and Grammy Award winner known for hits like "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?" and “Happy Home.”

Paula Zahn

American journalist and ten-time Emmy Award winner who has worked at CNN, ABC, CBS, and Fox News. She is the host and executive producer of the crime documentary series “On the Case With Paula Zahn.”

5. Variations and nicknames of Paula

The name Paula has spread across numerous cultures and languages and spawned a variety of beautiful variants. In Spanish-speaking countries, the name remains Paula, while in Italian it appears as Paola. French speakers use the elegant Paulette while Czech favors Pavla. Dutch uses Paulien and the Finnish prefers Pauliina. The variant Pála also appears in Iceland, along with Pavica in Croatia. Each variant carries the same noble lineage while reflecting distinct cultural and linguistic traditions.

With such a classic name come numerous affectionate nicknames that loved ones use. The most common diminutives include Pau, Pauly, and the playful Polly. Some families opt for Paulie, while others might use Pau-Pau. In Spanish-speaking regions, Paulita serves as an endearing diminutive. Friends might use Pauberry Paula-Bear as playful modifications. Whether formal variants or intimate nicknames, the name Paula offers rich possibilities for personalization across different contexts and relationships.

6. Best name combinations with Paula

names that pair well with Paula:

Paula Grace
Paula Rosa
Paula Yvonne
Paula Victoria
Paula Belen
Paula Betty
Paula Celeste
Paula Juliette
Paula Isabel
Paula Megan
Paula Carmen
Paula Emily
Paula Natalia
Paula Genevieve
Paula Regina
Paula Charlotte
Paula Andrea
Paula Valentina
Paula Elizabeth
Paula Catalina
Elena Paula
Sofia Paula
Isabella Paula
Amelia Paula
Lucia Paula
Carolina Paula
Gabriela Paula
Valentina Paula
Aurora Paula
Emilia Paula
Olivia Paula
Camila Paula
Antonia Paula
Beatriz Paula
Adriana Paula
Lauren Paula
Mariana Paula
Teresa Paula

7. Numerology of Paula name

In Pythagorean numerology, the name "Paula" reveals important aspects of character and life path.

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

7
P(7) + A(1) + U(3) + L(3) + A(1) = 15; 1+5 = 7

The Destiny Number 7 indicates that Paula has an analytical, insightful, and philosophical nature. She likely has a deep curiosity about life's mysteries and excels in research, science, and intellectual pursuits. In her career, Paula would thrive in fields focusing on searching for deeper meaning and offering wisdom to others. In relationships, Paula is seeking partners who can engage in deep and meaningful bonds rather than superficial interactions.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

5
A(1) + U(3) + A(1) = 5 = 5
(Only vowels are counted)

With Soul Urge Number 5, Paula's inner desire includes independence and new experiences. She's naturally drawn to roles where she can explore fresh ideas, adapt to changes, and puruse diverse undertakings. In her career, this translates to jobs in sales, travel, entertainment, and journalism. In relationships, Paula is the one who brings excitement to the relationship. You seek partners who acknowledges your curiosity and freedom-loving nature.

Personality Number:

1
P(7) + L(3) = 10; 1+0 = 1
(Only consonants are counted)

Paula's Personality Number 1 shows how others perceive her as creative, , confident, and leadership-oriented. She likely presents herself as charming and influential. In her career, this translates to natural leadership abilities and the potential to excel in pioneering roles. Overall, Paula appears to be capable, original, and risk-taker.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Paula

Like Paula ? What about:

Camille

Campbell

Declan

Elaine

Elise

Afton

Bette

Charlee

Ainsley

Genya

Caiden

Laurel

Gemma

Caleb

Bernice

Quinton

Dasha

Caden

Laurance

Francine

Common sibling names

Sisters

Camille

Alma

Bella

August

Carter

Marcie

Nora

Lauren

Elaine

Lucie

Gemma

Darcy

Elise

Lucille

Charlee

Ella

Maxine

Ainsley

Constance

Julie

Brothers

Eli

Francis

Declan

Cayden

Caleb

Calvin

Lucca

Bodie

Pablo

Caden

Lucas

August

Calum

Lawrence

Darcy

Aiden

Noel

Forrest

Carter

Caiden

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Baby name lists including Paula

By Momcozy Care Team

Paula

1. Paula name meaning and origin

References:

2. Paula name popularity

3. Paula in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Paula

5. Variations and nicknames of Paula

6. Best name combinations with Paula

names that pair well with Paula:

7. Numerology of Paula name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Paula

Like Paula ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Paula

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