Latin Origin

Paul

Derived from the Latin Paulus, meaning 'small' or 'humble,' Paul has been elevated to greatness through Saint Paul the Apostle, whose missionary work shaped Christianity. The name bridges humility with authority, remaining popular across centuries and cultures. Its simplicity and strength have made it a timeless choice across the Western world.

Paul is a boy's name of Latin origin. Derived from the Latin Paulus, meaning 'small' or 'humble,' Paul has been elevated to greatness through Saint Paul the Apostle, whose missionary work shaped Christianity. The name bridges humility with authority, remaining popular across centuries and cultures. Its simplicity and strength have made it a timeless choice across the Western world.

One of the most enduring Christian names, with deep scriptural associations and consistent popularity across English-speaking cultures.

Origin & Etymology

The name Paul has roots in the Latin language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from the Latin Paulus, meaning 'small' or 'humble,' Paul has been elevated to greatness through Saint Paul the Apostle, whose missionary work shaped Christianity”.

Cultural context: One of the most enduring Christian names, with deep scriptural associations and consistent popularity across English-speaking cultures.

As a boy's name, Paul carries the character of its Latin heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.

Popularity Trend
Famous Pauls8
P

Paul Walkers

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Actor, Fast & Furious franchise star, philanthropist

American actor best known for his role as Brian O'Conner in the Fast & Furious film franchise, which made him a global action star.

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Paul Krugman

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Nobel Prize-winning economist, trade theory pioneer, public intellectual

American economist and Nobel Prize laureate known for his work on trade theory, economic geography, and criticism of austerity policies. He is an influential public intellectual and op-ed columnist.

1953 – present

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Paul McCartney

EntertainmentBritish

Co-founder of The Beatles, legendary musician and songwriter

British singer, songwriter, and musician who co-founded The Beatles, one of the most influential rock bands in history. He has had a successful solo career spanning over five decades with numerous Grammy Awards and a legacy of iconic songs.

1942 – present

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Paul Simon

EntertainmentAmerican

Singer-songwriter, Simon and Garfunkel co-founder, musical innovator

American singer-songwriter and musician best known as part of the folk-rock duo Simon and Garfunkel. His songwriting is celebrated for its lyrical sophistication, innovative arrangements, and genre-blending approach to popular music.

1941 – present

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Paul Ehrlich

ScienceAmerican

Ecologist, environmental scientist, author of The Population Bomb

German Jewish biologist, physician, and environmental scientist best known for his work on population dynamics and his influential book "The Population Bomb," which raised awareness about overpopulation and environmental degradation.

1932 – present

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Paul Newman

EntertainmentAmerican

Academy Award-nominated actor, philanthropist, Newman's Own founder

American actor and philanthropist known for his striking blue eyes and iconic roles in films like "Cool Hand Luke" and "The Sting." He founded Newman's Own, a food company that donates 100% of after-tax profits to charity.

1925 – 2008

P

Paul Cézanne

HistoricalFrench

Post-Impressionist painter, founder of modern art movements

French Post-Impressionist painter whose innovative approach to color, form, and perspective profoundly influenced modern art and paved the way for Cubism and modern painting movements.

1839 – 1906

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Paul Revere

HistoricalAmerican

American Revolutionary patriot, midnight ride of Paul Revere

American silversmith and patriot famous for his midnight ride during the American Revolution, immortalized by the phrase "The British are coming." He was a key figure in the Boston Tea Party and other revolutionary activities.

1735 – 1818

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Paul mean?

Paul means "Derived from the Latin Paulus, meaning 'small' or 'humble,' Paul has been elevated to greatness through Saint Paul the Apostle, whose missionary work shaped Christianity. The name bridges humility with authority, remaining popular across centuries and cultures. Its simplicity and strength have made it a timeless choice across the Western world.", and is of Latin origin.

Is Paul a boy name?

Paul is primarily used as a boy's name.

What is the origin of the name Paul?

Paul is of Latin origin. One of the most enduring Christian names, with deep scriptural associations and consistent popularity across English-speaking cultures.

Quick Facts
Gender

Boy

Syllables

2

Origin

Latin

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