Meaning, origin, history
Ursula is a unique and intriguing given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the male given name Ursula, which means "little bear" in Latin. The name Ursula is believed to have been first used as a female given name in the Middle Ages, when it was associated with Saint Ursula, a legendary Catholic saint who was said to have been martyred along with her 11,000 virgin companions.
The name Ursula has been used throughout history by several notable figures. One of the most famous Ursulas is Ursula Andress, a Swiss actress best known for her role as Honey Ryder in the James Bond film "Dr. No." Another well-known Ursula is Ursula K. Le Guin, an American author and poet who was highly influential in the science fiction genre.
Despite its male origins, Ursula has been primarily used as a female given name throughout history. It has a unique sound and spelling that make it stand out from more common names like Ursula's cousin names such as Barbara or Beatrice. Today, Ursula is still a relatively rare name, but it continues to be used by parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughter.
In terms of its meaning and significance, Ursula carries with it the powerful symbolism of the bear, which is often associated with strength, courage, and protectiveness. Additionally, the name's association with Saint Ursula lends it a sense of purity, devotion, and martyrdom. Overall, Ursula is a unique and meaningful name that has been used by notable figures throughout history and continues to be chosen by parents today.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Ursla since 1880
Total births
18
Total since 1880
Peak year
1968
8 births
in 1976
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years