Origin
Latin origin, from the name Paullus, itself derived from Paulus meaning 'small' or 'humble' in Latin. The name Pauline became common in Christian cultures due to Saint Paul and the female form used in religious contexts. It has been present in Australia since European settlement, primarily through Anglican, Catholic, and other Christian traditions.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'small' or 'humble'. In Australian English contexts, it often connotes modesty and gentleness, also associated with classical and religious heritage.
Pronunciation
/pɔːˈliːn/ (Australian English) — with stress on the second syllable, a soft 'p' sound, and long 'ee' vowel sound in the second syllable. , ″pɔːˈliːn″
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Paulaine
- Pauleen
- Paolina
Nicknames
- Pauleen
- Paula
- Lina
Name Days
- 26 June (Feast of Saint Pauline)
- 16 January (Saint Pauline of the Cross)
- 15 January (Māori New Year and cultural celebrations where popular names like Pauline are sometimes observed in community events)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with pauline:
- Mary and Pauline
- Elizabeth and Pauline
- Charlotte and Pauline
Fun Facts
- Famous Aussies named Pauline include Pauline Hanson, a former politician known for her controversial views.
- The name gained popularity in early 20th-century Australia, partly due to French influence and Catholic traditions.
- In Australian pop culture, Pauline is often associated with traditional femininity and a classic charm.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name pauline:
- Gentle
- Modest
- Traditional
- Compassionate
- Respectful
Aesthetic Qualities
Classic and elegant, with a timeless visual appeal; the name's gentle consonants and vowel sounds evoke softness and femininity, popular in Australian print and media.
Geographical Distribution
Historically more common in eastern states such as New South Wales and Victoria, especially within Catholic and Anglican communities. Less common in remote or Indigenous communities.
Numerological Significance
Name number 3, associated with creativity, communication, and optimism in numerology. The number indicates social and artistic traits, often linked with expressive and outgoing personalities.
Astrological Connections
Often associated with the zodiac signs Cancer and Gemini, underscoring traits like sensitivity, adaptability, and communication skills common to individuals born under these signs.
Historical Context
The name has religious connotations, with Saint Pauline (a 3rd-century Christian martyr) and modern figures such as Pauline Hanson, a significant political character in Australia. The name appeared in Australian records from the colonial era, often in Catholic communities.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts easily across languages, with variants in Latin-based and Slavic languages, but retains its spelling in English-speaking contexts. In Māori or Aboriginal languages, adaptations are rare and typically involve transliterations if used.
Famous People Named pauline
- Pauline Hanson (Politician)
- Pauline McLynn (Actress)
- Pauline Hanson (Politician)
- Pauline (a character in Australian literature and media)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2016 | 1 |
2014 | 1 |
1973 | 45 |
1971 | 51 |