IPA Pronunciation

/pa.oˈli.na/

Say It Like

pow-LEE-nah

Syllables

3

trisyllabic

Paolina is the feminine diminutive form of the Latin name Paulus, which means "small" or "humble". The name carries an affectionate and delicate nuance, often implying endearment or youthfulness. It originated as a way to refer to a female member of the Paul family or simply as a charming, smaller form of Paula.

Cultural Significance of Paolina

Paolina enjoys particular popularity in Italian and other Romance language-speaking cultures, where it is seen as a classic and elegant name. It also carries religious significance through its association with Saint Paul and early Christian traditions.

Paolina Name Popularity in 2025

While not among the most common names globally, Paolina maintains steady usage in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities. It is appreciated for its timeless appeal and melodious sound, often chosen by parents seeking a name with both tradition and femininity.

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Popular Nicknames5

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International Variations8

PaulaPaulinaPavlinaPavlínaPaolinaPauleenaPaulenaPaolena

Name Energy & Essence

The name Paolina carries the essence of “Small, humble” from Latin tradition. Names beginning with "P" often embody qualities of patience, perfectionism, and philosophical thinking.

Symbolism

Symbolizing humility and smallness, Paolina also connotes grace and femininity, often associated with kindness and a softly powerful character.

Cultural Significance

Paolina enjoys particular popularity in Italian and other Romance language-speaking cultures, where it is seen as a classic and elegant name. It also carries religious significance through its association with Saint Paul and early Christian traditions.

Paolina Bonaparte

Royalty/Nobility

A notable figure in European history, Paolina Bonaparte was renowned for her charm and political connections during the Napoleonic era.

  • Sister of Napoleon Bonaparte
  • Patron of the arts
  • Known for her beauty and influence in Napoleonic France

Paolina Secco Suardo Grismondi

Religious Figure

Paolina Secco was noted for her devout life and charitable contributions within the Catholic Church.

  • Venerated Italian religious figure
  • Known for her charitable works

Paolina Russo

Academic and Researcher

2000s-present

  • Work in linguistics and education

La Dolce Vita ()

Paolina

A charming socialite navigating the vibrant Roman nightlife.

Il Commissario Montalbano ()

Paolina

A recurring character involved in local Sicilian community stories.

L’amore è eterno finché dura ()

Paolina

A young woman experiencing the complexities of love and relationships.

Paolina

🇪🇸spanish

Paoline

🇫🇷french

Paolina

🇮🇹italian

Paolina

🇩🇪german

パオリーナ (Paorīna)

🇯🇵japanese

保利娜 (Bǎolìnà)

🇨🇳chinese

باولينا

🇸🇦arabic

פאולינה

🇮🇱hebrew

Fun Fact About Paolina

The name Paolina was famously borne by Paolina Borghese, Napoleon Bonaparte's sister, known for her striking beauty and influence during the Napoleonic era.

Personality Traits for Paolina

Those named Paolina often radiate warmth and gentleness, paired with a spirited intelligence. The name suggests a person who is humble yet confident, with a natural charm and a nurturing disposition.

What does the name Paolina mean?

Paolina is a Latin name meaning “Small, humble”. Paolina is the feminine diminutive form of the Latin name Paulus, which means "small" or "humble". The name carries an affectionate and delicate nuance, often implying endearment or youthfulness. It originated as a way to refer to a female member of the Paul family or simply as a charming, smaller form of Paula.

How do you pronounce Paolina?

Paolina is pronounced pow-LEE-nah (IPA: /pa.oˈli.na/). It has 3 syllables with the pattern trisyllabic.

What are nicknames for Paolina?

Popular nicknames for Paolina include: Paola, Lina, Pauli, Pau, Poli.

Who are famous people named Paolina?

Famous people named Paolina include: Paolina Bonaparte, Paolina Secco Suardo Grismondi, Paolina Russo, Paolina Vessella.

Hello dear readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you one of my favorite names that beautifully blends history, elegance, and a touch of personal warmth — Paolina. As a lover of names and their stories, I find Paolina to be a gem that carries so much meaning and cultural richness. Let’s dive into why this name continues to captivate hearts and remains a lovely choice for girls around the world.

Meaning and Etymology The name Paolina comes from Latin roots, serving as the feminine diminutive of Paulus, which means "small" or "humble." It’s fascinating how this simple meaning of "small" can carry such endearing affection and a sense of gentleness. In many cultures, diminutive forms of names are a way to express love and tenderness, and Paolina is no exception. It’s like calling someone "little Paula" but with a certain grace and softness that feels both intimate and timeless.

Origin Story Tracing back to Latin origins, Paolina has been embraced widely in Italian culture, among others. Its use as a feminine form linked to Saint Paul adds a layer of religious depth and historical significance. Over the centuries, this name has been favored by families who appreciate its classic sound coupled with a subtle strength. It’s often associated with qualities of humility and kindness, aligning with the spiritual symbolism of its root name.

Historical Figures One cannot talk about Paolina without mentioning the remarkable Paolina Bonaparte, the sister of Napoleon Bonaparte. She was renowned not only for her striking beauty but also for her influential role during the Napoleonic era. Her legacy adds a touch of regal allure to the name. Another inspiring figure is Paolina Secco Suardo Grismondi, known for her devout and charitable life within the Catholic tradition. And we must not forget Paolina Pesenti, who brought delicate artistry to life through her miniatures in 19th-century Italy.

Celebrities and Pop Culture In more recent times, Paolina has been the name of accomplished women in various fields. Paolina Russo, an academic and linguist, has made significant contributions to education, while Paolina Vessella shines on the Italian stage and screen. Such contemporary bearers keep the name vibrant and relevant.

In the world of entertainment, Paolina appears as a character name in several Italian films and TV series. For example, in Federico Fellini’s classic "La Dolce Vita," Paolina is portrayed as a symbol of the vivacious Roman social scene. This cinematic connection adds a cultural flair that fans of Italian cinema will appreciate.

Fun Facts and Trivia Did you know that the name Paolina is not only cherished in Italy but also has beautiful variations and similar names across Europe? Names like Paulina, Pauline, and Pavlina share the same roots but each carry unique regional flavors. Also, the name has inspired various affectionate nicknames such as Lina, Poli, and Paolita, giving it versatility and charm.

Modern Usage Trends While Paolina may not top the charts globally, it holds a cherished place in Italian communities and among those who seek names with a classic yet uncommon feel. Parents today often look for names that are meaningful and carry a story, and Paolina fits perfectly into that category. It’s elegant, easy to pronounce across many languages, and rich with history.

Personal Reflections I’ve always been drawn to names that tell a story, and Paolina does just that. It’s a name that feels like a warm embrace — gentle yet strong, simple yet profound. Whenever I meet someone named Paolina, I imagine a person who is kind-hearted and quietly confident, someone who carries their heritage with pride but also walks their own unique path.

Conclusion: Why Paolina Is Special In a world where many names come and go, Paolina stands out as a timeless choice. It beautifully encapsulates humility, grace, and a rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re drawn to its melodic sound, its historical roots, or its meaningful symbolism, Paolina offers a perfect blend of tradition and individuality. It’s a name that honors the past while shining brightly into the future — a truly special gift for any little girl destined to grow into a remarkable woman.

Thank you for joining me on this lovely journey through the name Paolina. I hope you found it as enchanting as I do! Until next time, keep celebrating the beautiful stories our names tell.