Skip to main content
Christian Name Meaning & Origin Guide

Ursula

Little Female Bear

Pronunciation: UR-soo-luh (/ˈɜːrsʊlə/)

Girl Name Biblical origin Popularity 60
Meaning
Little Female Bear
Origin
Biblical
Lucky Number
11
Lucky Day
Thursday
Lucky Stone
Garnet
Life Path
3
Popularity Score
60
Language
English, Hebrew, Greek, Latin
Lucky Colors: GreenBlue

What does Ursula mean?

Derived from the Latin word 'ursa', meaning 'bear'. Named after the legendary saint and martyr, Ursula of Cologne, who was said to have been a bear in a previous life and saved countless souls before her death.

Ursula in other languages & scripts

Hebrew
אורסולה
לשון שור Ursola שמות הנוצרים הקדושים
Greek
Ουρσουλα
Ουρσουλα σημαίνει μικρή αρκούδα
Latin
Ursula
Ursula means little bear
English
Ursula
Little bear, symbolizing strength and courage

How to pronounce Ursula

English pronunciation
UR-soo-luh
IPA notation
/ˈɜːrsʊlə/

Numerology & personality

Creativity, self-expression, and communication are key themes for those with a 3 life path number.

Associated Traits
CompassionateLoyalD = DevotedS = Spiritual

Spiritual & cultural context

Symbol of strength and protection, embodying the motherly and nurturing qualities of a bear.

The name Ursula, derived from the Latin word 'ursa' meaning 'bear', has been used throughout history in various cultures. In medieval Europe, Ursula was a popular feminine given name, and she was linked to the legend of the Ursula and the Eleven Thousand Virgins, a group of young women who were martyred for their faith. In the Catholic Church, Ursula is venerated as a virgin and martyr, her feast day celebrated on October 21.

Scriptural & traditional roots

Saint connection: Saint Ursula

Popularity of Ursula by region

Region Country Score Year
France FR 67 2024
United Kingdom UK 69 2024
Spain ES 53 2024

Spelling variations of Ursula

UrsulahUrsule

Names similar to Ursula

Frequently asked questions about Ursula

What does Ursula mean?
Ursula is a Latin female name meaning 'little female bear'.
Is Ursula a Christianity name?
Yes, Ursula is a Christian name inspired by the legendary saint and martyr of the same name.
How to pronounce Ursula?
Ursula is pronounced 'ur-suh-lah'.
Is Ursula popular today?
Ursula is a less common name today, but it continues to be popular among parents looking for unique and meaningful names with a rich history.
What is the origin of Ursula?
Ursula is a Latin name derived from the word 'ursa', meaning 'bear'.