Paul

Paul is a classic male name with a rich history and significant cultural importance. Derived from the Latin name Paulus, meaning “small” or “humble,” Paul has been a popular choice for parents across various cultures and time periods.

Meaning and Origin

The name originates from the Roman family name Paulus, which means “small” or “humble” in Latin. In ancient Rome, it was often used to distinguish the younger of two male family members with the same name. The name gained widespread popularity among Christians due to its association with Saint Paul, one of the most influential figures in early Christianity.

Cultural Significance

It’s prominence in Christian tradition stems from the biblical figure Saint Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus. After his conversion to Christianity, he became a key apostle and authored many books of the New Testament. This association has made Paul a popular choice for Christian families throughout history.

Gender and Usage

This name is traditionally a masculine name. While it has been used occasionally for girls, it is overwhelmingly associated with boys and men.

Popularity

Paul has been a consistently popular name in many Western countries:

United States: Ranked in the top 300 boys’ names in recent years, after falling from the top 200 in 2014.
Europe: Remains popular in countries like Germany and Austria, ranking 7th and 6th respectively in the mid-2010s.