Paul
Paul first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1957, when 27,012 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 1,316.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Paul popular?
Declining Paul is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1957 peak.
| 2020s | 8,125 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 19,030 | |
| 2000s | 30,964 | |
| 1990s | 58,931 | |
| 1980s | 104,397 | |
| 1970s | 136,390 | |
| 1960s | 242,503 | |
| 1950s | 253,202 | |
| 1940s | 183,364 | |
| 1930s | 125,774 | |
| 1920s | 132,384 | |
| 1910s | 78,216 | |
| 1900s | 12,636 | |
| 1890s | 8,181 | |
| 1880s | 4,196 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Paul mean?
Paul comes from the Latin Paulus, “small, humble.” The apostle Paul — originally Saul of Tarsus — became one of the foundational figures of Christianity, spreading the name across the world.
Variants & spellings
- Paolo
- Pablo
- Pavel
Names like Paul
French names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Paul
Popular French names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Paul
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Paul mean?
Paul means Small, humble. Paul comes from the Latin Paulus, “small, humble.” The apostle Paul — originally Saul of Tarsus — became one of the foundational figures of Christianity, spreading the name across the world.
What is the origin of the name Paul?
Paul is of French origin.
How do you pronounce Paul?
Paul is pronounced “POL.”
Is Paul a boy or a girl name?
Paul is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Paul a popular name right now?
Paul is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1957 peak.
How popular is the name Paul?
In 2025, Paul ranked #262 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Paul most popular?
Paul was most popular in 1957, when about 27,012 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Paul?
Names similar to Paul include Roy, Beau, Leroy, Leon, Remy.
What names go well with Paul?
French names that pair well with Paul include Amy, Charlotte, Louise, Roy, Beau.