Paulina is a female given name of Latin origin that means "small" or "humble." It is derived from the Latin word "paulus," which also means "short" or "brief." The name has been used throughout history, but it became particularly popular during the Middle Ages in Europe.
In ancient Rome, Paulina was often used as a female counterpart to the male name Paulus. In the early Christian era, Saint Paul of Tarsus, also known as Saul of Tarsus, had a companion named Paulina who was martyred with him. This may have contributed to the name's popularity among early Christians.
In literature, Paulina appears in several notable works. She is a character in "The Winter's Tale" by William Shakespeare and in the epic poem "Paradise Lost" by John Milton. In both cases, she is portrayed as a virtuous and devoted woman.
Today, Paulina continues to be used as a given name for girls around the world. It remains popular in countries such as Poland, Spain, and Italy, where it has historical roots. In some cultures, variations of the name like Paulina, Pauline, or Paula are also commonly used. Despite its humble meaning, the name Paulina carries with it a sense of strength and dignity that has made it a beloved choice for parents throughout history.
According to U.S. birth statistics, the name Paulia has seen a total of 15 births over two recorded years: 10 births in 1956 and 5 births in 1962. This data shows that while the name was more popular in 1956, it continued to be used with some frequency in 1962 as well, resulting in a combined total of 15 newborn girls given the name Paulia during these two years.