What does Pauline mean and where does it come from?
Pauline is the French feminine form of Paul, which means 'small' or 'humble'. The name started to gain popularity during the 19th century and has been used in various countries, especially in French-speaking regions. Notable figures with the name include Pauline Bonaparte, the sister of Napoleon Bon
Cultural significance
Pauline has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of small.
Peak popularity
Reached #32 in 1915 — currently #2986 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Pauline?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Pauline?
Pauline works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pauline Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Pauline Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Pauline Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Pauline Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Pauline Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Pauline Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Pauline right now?
Rising fast — up 508 spots — currently #2986 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2986 | 56 | ▲ up 508 · +24% births |
| 2024 | #3494 | 45 | ▼ down 1715 · -89% births |
| 2023 | #1779 | 421 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2022 | #1784 | 401 | ▲ up 5 · +8% births |
| 2021 | #1789 | 371 | ▲ up 1245 · +613% births |
| 2020 | #3034 | 52 | ▼ down 657 · -32% births |
| 2015 | #2377 | 77 | ▲ up 697 · +43% births |
| 2010 | #3074 | 54 | ▼ down 1344 · -53% births |
| 2005 | #1730 | 114 | ▼ down 426 · -22% births |
| 2000 | #1304 | 146 | ▼ down 411 · -31% births |
| 1995 | #893 | 212 | ▼ down 137 · -23% births |
| 1990 | #756 | 274 | ▼ down 34 · +15% births |
| 1985 | #722 | 238 | ▼ down 88 · -17% births |
| 1980 | #634 | 287 | ▼ down 115 · -16% births |
| 1975 | #519 | 340 | — |
The story of Pauline
Pauline has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #32 in 1915. More than 226,877 babies have been named Pauline since 1880. Once ranked #115 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1779 in 2023. Pauline is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Pauline in 1915:
Pauline by decade
Pauline peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,594 | |
| 1890s | 6,652 | |
| 1900s | 13,339 | |
| 1910s | 50,211 | |
| 1920s ★ | 64,298 | |
| 1930s | 33,896 | |
| 1940s | 21,998 | |
| 1950s | 14,480 | |
| 1960s | 8,956 | |
| 1970s | 4,009 | |
| 1980s | 2,483 | |
| 1990s | 2,186 | |
| 2000s | 1,094 | |
| 2010s | 629 | |
| 2020s | 153 | |
What are good nicknames for Pauline?
What names sound and feel like Pauline?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pauline also consider these
How is Pauline written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Pauline?
Common questions about the name Pauline
What does the name Pauline mean?
Pauline means "small" — a name rooted in France 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 Pauline?
Pauline is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Pauline?
Pauline originates from France tradition. France 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 Pauline?
Pauline is a two-syllable name pronounced paw-LEEN. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Pauline a common or rare name?
Pauline is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.