What does Paulene mean and where does it come from?
Paulene is derived from the French name 'Pauline,' which signifies 'small' or 'humble.' This name has roots in Latin, stemming from 'Paulus.' It has been used across both English and French-speaking countries and retains a certain classic charm. It reached popularity in the 20th century and has been
Cultural significance
Paulene has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in French-speaking communities, where it reflects values of small; humble.
Peak popularity
Reached #1232 in 1920 — currently #795 in the US.
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Related Reading
French-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Paulene?
Paulene works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Paulene Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Paulene Rose
Floral · soft ending
Paulene Mae
Sweet · timeless
Paulene Claire
French influence · crisp
Paulene Jane
Literary · strong
Paulene Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Paulene right now?
Holding steady — currently #795 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #795 | 1,405 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #800 | 1,385 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #805 | 1,355 | ▲ up 12296 · +27000% births |
| 1990 | #13101 | 5 | ▼ down 7877 · -55% births |
| 1975 | #5224 | 11 | ▲ up 1970 · +83% births |
| 1970 | #7194 | 6 | ▼ down 2915 · -40% births |
| 1965 | #4279 | 10 | ▼ down 2012 · -63% births |
| 1960 | #2267 | 27 | ▲ up 169 · +29% births |
| 1955 | #2436 | 21 | ▼ down 222 · +5% births |
| 1950 | #2214 | 20 | ▲ up 450 · +67% births |
| 1945 | #2664 | 12 | ▼ down 585 · -25% births |
| 1940 | #2079 | 16 | ▼ down 670 · -43% births |
| 1935 | #1409 | 28 | ▲ up 282 · +22% births |
| 1930 | #1691 | 23 | ▼ down 130 · -21% births |
| 1925 | #1561 | 29 | — |
The story of Paulene
Paulene entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. With 1,416 total births recorded, Paulene remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2670 in 1910 to #795 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Paulene in 1920:
Paulene by decade
Paulene peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 16 | |
| 1910s | 177 | |
| 1920s ★ | 308 | |
| 1930s | 233 | |
| 1940s | 231 | |
| 1950s | 177 | |
| 1960s | 154 | |
| 1970s | 81 | |
| 1980s | 23 | |
| 1990s | 11 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
💎With 1,416 total births, Paulene is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Paulene?
Famous people named Paulene
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Paulene (French monarch)
Paulene bore this name in the French royal court, spreading its aristocratic prestige across Europe.
P(
Paulene (French author)
Paulene immortalized this name in French literature, one of the world's great literary traditions.
P(
Paulene (French monarch)
Paulene bore this name in the French royal court, spreading its aristocratic prestige across Europe.
P(
Paulene (French philosopher)
Paulene carried this name in the Enlightenment tradition that shaped modern Western thought.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Paulene?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Paulene also consider these
How is Paulene written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Paulene?
Common questions about the name Paulene
What does the name Paulene mean?
Paulene means "Small; humble" — a name rooted in French tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Paulene?
Paulene is currently ranked #795 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Paulene?
Paulene originates from French tradition. French names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Paulene?
Paulene is a two-syllable name pronounced P AO1 L N EY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What are good nicknames for Paulene?
Paulene naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.