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Paul | Meaning, Origin & History | The Name Library

Name Detail

Paul

Paul is a common Latin masculine given name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. Paul – or its variations – can be a given name or surname.

Latin originSecular traditionClassicUniqueShort

Meaning

Paul is a common Latin masculine given name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage a

Snapshot

A boy name with 1 syllables. Currently considered rare.

Popularity Over Time

U.S. Data (2000-2023)

Explore how the popularity of Paul has changed over the last two decades.

Historical Context & Cultural Origin

Paul is a common Latin masculine given name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage. It originates from the Roman family name 'Paulus', meaning 'small' or 'humble'. The name gained significant prominence due to Saint Paul the Apostle, one of the most important figures in early Christianity.

Famous Namesakes

Paul McCartney, Paul Newman, Paul Rudd, Paul Simon, Paul George

Nicknames & Variations

Pauly, Pally, Pol

AI Cultural Insight

Deep dive into history & etymology

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