Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Paola

Paola is the Italian and Spanish female equivalent to Paolo, Pablo or – as we know in English – Paul. The name Paul was once an old Roman family name which was derived from a nickname during the ancient classical era. The Latin word “Paulus” means ‘small, humble.’ Paul is borne from the Bible, in the New Testament, as one of the most influential Christian missionaries who lived in the first century at the time of rising Christian beliefs. Originally called Saul, he was a Jewish Roman citizen raised in Jerusalem and over-zealous in his determination to imprison and even execute Christians. This all changed on Paul’s “Damascus Road experience” (a term still used in referring to the precise moment when a person develops a personal relationship with God/Jesus). In Paul’s case, he was going to Damascus to capture more of those pesky Christians when suddenly a bright light appeared and blinded him. “Who are you, Lord?” Paul asked, to which a voice replied: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” [Acts 9:4]. Uh oh. Sounds like Paul got caught in a pretty big faux-pas. Fortunately for Paul, his conversion is successful, his sight is restored and he goes onto become one of the most important early Christian leaders and a prolific spreader of Christianity throughout the Mediterranean. Many female versions of the name Paul developed throughout Europe and include Paula, Paulette, Paulina, Polina and Pavla. Paola is the Italian and Spanish female form of Paul. It is a Top 100 favorite female name in Spain and ranked among the Top 40 in Mexico. Once quite popular in Italy, Paola doesn’t seem to be as common anymore.

All About the Baby Name – Paola

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME PAOLA

The number Nine personality represents the completion or ending of the cycle, and a need for perfection. This is the personality that moves from "self" to a greater understanding and compassion for the human condition and the world order. They want to make the world a better place. Nines are capable of great spiritual and humanitarian achievements. They are courageous and fearless, able to fight great battles on behalf of worthy causes. These personalities will not tolerate injustice. They are compassionate people with a strong sensitivity to others. They are able to both educate and inspire. Friendships and relationships are the lifeblood to the Nine, and they place a high value on love and affection. Nines are often exceptionally gifted artistically, and they have a keen imagination and enterprising mind.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME PAOLA

Paola is a relatively new name in America. She first appeared on the female naming charts in 1983. The name climbed steadily as the years advanced and by the turn of the 21st century, Paola was at her height of popularity (ranking in at #301 on the charts). Mainly influenced by Hispanic or Latino Americans, Paola has only seen moderate success on the charts at best. This name may be considered too ethnic or exotic for the typical English-speaking American parent. We think of Paola as more Italian than Spanish – but in America the name’s usage is mainly being driven by the Spanish-speaking population. Most likely, Mexico has reminded the border states of this long-neglected charmer (Paola is ranked 29th in popularity among baby girls in Mexico 2010). The Italians pronounce Paola with two syllables (POW-lah) while in Spanish it’s three syllables (pah-O-lah). Currently, Paola is a more popular name in America than her English-speaking cousins Paula and Paulina.

Quick Facts

ON PAOLA

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

Italian

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

3

RANKING POPULARITY:

671

PRONUNCIATION:

POW-lah; pah-O-lah

SIMPLE MEANING:

Small, humble

Characteristics

OF PAOLA

Multi-talented

Intuitive

Oneness

Idealistic

Philanthropy

Independent

Perfection

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Paola

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME PAOLA

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Paola

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME PAOLA

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Paola


Popular Songs

ON PAOLA

We cannot find any popular or well-known songs with the name of Paola


Famous People

NAMED PAOLA

Paola Suárez (Argentinian tennis player)

Children of Famous People

NAMED PAOLA

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Paola

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME PAOLA

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Paola