Paul

What does the baby name Paul mean? Learn about what Paul means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Paul - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Paul: P-A-U-L, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Paul: pawl
Meaning of Paul: Small, humble, tiny, petite, small- little, little.
Origin of Paul: The name 'Paul' has its origins in the Latin language, derived from the Roman family name 'Paul'us, meaning 'small' or 'humble'. Its earliest known use dates back to ancient Rome, where it was a common name among both patricians and plebeians. The name gained prominence with the rise of Christianity, as the apostle 'Paul', also known as Saint 'Paul', played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ.; American Names; Belgian Names; Biblical Names; Christian Names; Dutch Names; English Names; French Names; German Names; Latin Names; Literary Names; Saints Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Paul: Paal; Paavo; Pablo; Padlo; Pal; Paley; Paolo; Paovo; Pasha; Pashka; Pauley; Paulie; Paulin; Paulinus; Paulis; Paulus; Pavel; Pavelek; Pavli; Pavlik; Pavluschka; Pawel; Pewlin; Pol; Poll; Poul
Popularity of Paul: Throughout history, the name 'Paul' has enjoyed consistent popularity. In ancient Rome, it was a widely used name, reflecting its association with humility and simplicity. In the Christian world, the name gained even more prominence due to the apostle 'Paul's influential role in the early church.

In modern times, the popularity of the name 'Paul' has fluctuated. It experienced a notable spike in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, where it ranked among the top 20 most popular names for several decades. However, in recent years, its popularity has declined, and it is now less commonly chosen by parents.; Paul currently has 778 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Fernando is slightly more popular than Paul.

Etymology of Paul

The etymology of the name 'Paul' can be traced back to the Latin word 'paulus', meaning 'small' or 'humble'. This linguistic root reflects the name's original meaning and the qualities it symbolizes. The name 'Paul' also shares similarities with other Latin names, such as 'Paul'inus and 'Paul'et, which further emphasize its humble connotations.

Cultural Significance of Paul

The name 'Paul' holds significant cultural importance, particularly within Christianity. The apostle 'Paul', known for his missionary journeys and epistles, is revered as one of the most influential figures in the development of Christian theology. His writings, included in the New Testament, continue to shape the beliefs and practices of millions of Christians worldwide.

Beyond its religious significance, the name 'Paul' has been associated with notable figures in various fields throughout history. From 'Paul' Revere, the American patriot, to 'Paul' Cézanne, the renowned French painter, individuals named 'Paul' have made significant contributions to art, literature, science, and many other domains.