What does Ula mean and where does it come from?
Ula is a name of Polish origin meaning 'luminous' or 'gem'. In an Irish context, it has connections to the word 'tuath', which means tribe. The name is relatively uncommon and tends to evoke a sense of beauty and light. It has also been used in various folkloric contexts, making it a culturally rich
Cultural significance
Ula has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Poland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of luminous, gem.
Peak popularity
Reached #712 in 1898 — currently #17088 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Poland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Ula?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Ula?
Ula works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ula Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Ula Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Ula Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Ula Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Ula Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Ula Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Ula right now?
Falling — down 5016 spots — currently #17088 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #17088 | 5 | ▼ down 5016 · -37% births |
| 2024 | #12072 | 8 | ▼ down 11505 · -100% births |
| 2023 | #567 | 1,633 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #572 | 1,613 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #577 | 1,583 | ▲ up 10284 · +17489% births |
| 2015 | #10861 | 9 | ▲ up 1421 · +13% births |
| 2010 | #12282 | 8 | ▼ down 436 |
| 2005 | #11846 | 8 | ▲ up 3196 · +60% births |
| 2000 | #15042 | 5 | ▼ down 5949 |
| 1975 | #9093 | 5 | ▼ down 2706 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #6387 | 7 | ▼ down 1201 |
| 1960 | #5186 | 7 | ▼ down 2209 · -53% births |
| 1955 | #2977 | 15 | ▲ up 455 · +50% births |
| 1950 | #3432 | 10 | ▼ down 1082 · -29% births |
| 1945 | #2350 | 14 | — |
The story of Ula
Ula has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,621 total births recorded, Ula remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #938 in 1880 to #567 in 2023. Ula is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ula in 1898:
Ula by decade
Ula peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 45 | |
| 1890s | 84 | |
| 1900s | 122 | |
| 1910s | 286 | |
| 1920s ★ | 426 | |
| 1930s | 211 | |
| 1940s | 135 | |
| 1950s | 88 | |
| 1960s | 52 | |
| 1970s | 42 | |
| 1980s | 8 | |
| 1990s | 6 | |
| 2000s | 60 | |
| 2010s | 56 | |
| 2020s | 13 | |
💎With 1,621 total births, Ula is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Ula?
What names sound and feel like Ula?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ula also consider these
How is Ula written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ula
What does the name Ula mean?
Ula means "luminous, gem" — a name rooted in Poland 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 Ula?
Ula is currently ranked #567 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 Ula?
Ula originates from Poland tradition. Poland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ula more of a girl or boy name?
Ula is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What personality traits are associated with the name Ula?
Studies on name perception suggest that Ula is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.