Latin Origin

Ursula

Derived from Latin 'ursa' meaning 'bear,' Ursula has deep historical and religious significance as the name of a legendary British saint. The name symbolizes quiet strength and dignity, popular across Europe for centuries and borne by royalty, artists, and scholars. Ursula strikes a balance between classical femininity and noble bearing.

Ursula is a girl's name of Latin origin. Derived from Latin 'ursa' meaning 'bear,' Ursula has deep historical and religious significance as the name of a legendary British saint. The name symbolizes quiet strength and dignity, popular across Europe for centuries and borne by royalty, artists, and scholars. Ursula strikes a balance between classical femininity and noble bearing.

A saint's name in Christian tradition, particularly venerated in Germany and the UK; gained modern popularity through literature and film.

Origin & Etymology

The name Ursula has roots in the Latin language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from Latin 'ursa' meaning 'bear,' Ursula has deep historical and religious significance as the name of a legendary British saint”.

Cultural context: A saint's name in Christian tradition, particularly venerated in Germany and the UK; gained modern popularity through literature and film.

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

Popularity Trend
Famous Ursulas6
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Ursula Burns

BusinessAmerican

First African American female CEO of Fortune 500 company (Xerox)

American engineer and business executive who became the first African American female CEO of a Fortune 500 company when she led Xerox Corporation (2009-2016).

1957 – present

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Ursula Plassnik

PoliticsAustrian

Austrian Foreign Minister; diplomat and international relations expert

Austrian politician and diplomat who served as Austria's Foreign Minister from 2008 to 2011, representing her country in international affairs during a pivotal period.

1956 – present

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Ursula Andress

EntertainmentSwiss

James Bond actress; Honey Ryder in Dr. No

Swiss-Italian actress and icon of 1960s cinema, best known for her role as Honey Ryder in the first James Bond film Dr. No (1962).

1936 – present

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Ursula K. Le Guin

Arts & LiteratureAmerican

Author of The Left Hand of Darkness and Earthsea series; pioneering feminist sci-fi

Groundbreaking American science fiction and fantasy author best known for The Left Hand of Darkness and The Earthsea series, pioneering feminist themes in speculative fiction.

1929 – 2016

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Ursula Mamlok

ScienceAmerican

Modernist composer and music educator; twelve-tone technique specialist

German-American composer and music educator whose modernist compositions and dedication to teaching enriched contemporary classical music throughout the late 20th century.

1923 – 2016

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Ursula Bloom

Arts & LiteratureBritish

Prolific novelist and playwright; over 150 published works

Prolific British author who wrote over 150 novels, plays, and short stories throughout the 20th century, becoming one of the most widely published female writers of her era.

1892 – 1984

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Ursula mean?

Ursula means "Derived from Latin 'ursa' meaning 'bear,' Ursula has deep historical and religious significance as the name of a legendary British saint. The name symbolizes quiet strength and dignity, popular across Europe for centuries and borne by royalty, artists, and scholars. Ursula strikes a balance between classical femininity and noble bearing.", and is of Latin origin.

Is Ursula a girl name?

Ursula is primarily used as a girl's name.

What is the origin of the name Ursula?

Ursula is of Latin origin. A saint's name in Christian tradition, particularly venerated in Germany and the UK; gained modern popularity through literature and film.

Quick Facts
Gender

Girl

Syllables

3

Origin

Latin

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