Ulla

“determination” — Associated with will and determination

Sweden origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#15026US 2023

6Births / yr

↑Rising

85All-time births

📅 Since 189900

How to pronounce Ulla

UHLL·AH

/ˈəll.ˈɑ/ · stress on UHLL · 2 syllables

“determination”

Associated with will and determination · Sweden origin

What does Ulla mean and where does it come from?

Ulla is a traditional Scandinavian name, often seen as a diminutive of names such as Ulrika or Ursula. It carries meanings associated with will and determination, suggesting a strong character. The name is typically found in Sweden and Germany and has historical roots in Viking culture. Popularity i

Cultural significance

Ulla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Sweden-speaking communities, where it reflects values of determination.

Peak popularity

Reached #1835 in 1899 — currently #15026 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Ulla?

Ulla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Ulla Grace

How popular is Ulla right now?

Rising fast — up 78 spots — currently #15026 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#15026 · Top 11%

1920

1950

1975

2015

2020

2021

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#15026	6	▲ up 78
2021	#15104	6	▼ down 2995 · -14% births
2020	#12109	7	▲ up 4391 · +40% births
2015	#16500	5	▼ down 7300
1975	#9200	5	▼ down 3756
1950	#5444	5	▼ down 316
1920	#5128	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Ulla

Best Year1920Rank #5128

Peak Count7

Average Rank#11216

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1920 - 20237 years

The story of Ulla

Ulla has been a beloved American name for over 125 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1899. With 85 total births recorded, Ulla remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5128 in 1920, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #15026 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Ulla in 1899:

Mary Anna Helen Margaret Ruth

Ulla by decade

Ulla peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →

Decade	Births
1890s	5
1910s	5
1920s	15
1950s	15
1960s	6
1970s	10
2000s	5
2010s ★	17
2020s	7

💎Ulla has only 85 total recorded births since 1899 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What names sound and feel like Ulla?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ulla also consider these

Ulva

Sweden · Wolf; She-wolf.

Ella

English · fairy maiden

Lulla

Arabic · Pearl.

Ula

Poland · luminous, gem

Zulla

Hebrew · to shine or

Bulla

International · A International name

Dulla

French · A French name

Olla

Scandinavia · ancestor's relic

How is Ulla written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Ulla

What does the name Ulla mean?

Ulla means "determination" — a name rooted in Sweden 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 Ulla?

Ulla is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Ulla?

Ulla originates from Sweden tradition. Sweden 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 Ulla?

Ulla is a two-syllable name pronounced AH1 L L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Ulla a common or rare name?

Ulla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.