All about the name

Ursa

Female

« Ursa is a unique and uncommon feminine given name of Latin origin meaning "she-bear". »

#7782 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Ursa is a unique and uncommon feminine given name of Latin origin. Its meaning is derived from the Latin word "ursa", which translates to "she-bear". This name has a strong and powerful connotation, likely stemming from the ancient Roman belief that Ursa Major (the Great Bear constellation) was a she-bear. The name Ursa has an interesting history in literature and mythology. In Roman mythology, Ursa is associated with the legendary she-bear who nursed the twins Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. This mythological figure is believed to be the origin of the cult of the Lupercalia festival, which honored the god Faunus and celebrated fertility. In astronomy, Ursa Major is one of the most recognizable constellations in the Northern Hemisphere's night sky. It is part of the Ursa Major group of stars, along with Ursa Minor (the Little Bear). The Greeks called these constellations the "Great Bear" and the "Little Bear", respectively. Ursa has also appeared as a character name in various works of literature and popular culture. For instance, in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, there is a character named Ursula Black, who is a distant ancestor of the main character, Harry Potter. In the Marvel Universe, Ursa Major is the codename of a superheroine who possesses superhuman strength and endurance. In conclusion, Ursa is an uncommon yet powerful feminine given name with Latin roots and rich historical, mythological, and astronomical significance. Despite its uniqueness, it has gained some traction in modern times as parents seek distinctive names for their children.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Ursa since 1880

Total births
54
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
14 births
in 2023
14
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+150%
vs previous 5 years