Origin
From the Greek name Παύλος (Pávlos), which means 'small' or 'humble'. The name was popularised in the Christian world by Saint Paul (Saul of Tarsus), one of the apostles. In the context of Australian history, the name has been adopted by Greek immigrants in Australia from the 19th century onwards, particularly in communities such as Melbourne and Sydney, where Greek migration was significant.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'small' or 'humble'. In Australian English contexts, the name carries connotations of modesty and humility, often associated with the virtues extolled by religious traditions and immigrant communities.
Pronunciation
/ˈpav.los/ (Australian English pronunciation, with emphasis on the first syllable, 'PAV-los') , stress on the first syllable, with 'a' as in 'father' and 'o' as in 'or'.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Παύλος (original Greek script)
- Pavlos (English transliteration)
- Pavleo (alternative variant, less common)
Nicknames
- Pav
- Pavli
Name Days
- 29 June (Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul)
- 25 January (Conversion of Saint Paul) - recognised by Christian denominations in Australia.
- 29 June (Feast of Saints Peter and Paul)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with pavlos:
- James Pavlos — a classic pairing with both biblical roots.
- Liam Pavlos — popular in contemporary Australia for its modern appeal.
- No pairing needed as Pavlos stands well as a standalone name.
Fun Facts
- Pavlos is relatively common among Greek-Australians, especially in Melbourne’s Greek community.
- The name is sometimes anglicised as 'Pablo' in Spanish-speaking countries, but 'Pavlos' remains distinctly Greek.
- In Australian popular culture, the name has been used for characters in literature and film representing Greek-Australian identity.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name pavlos:
- modest
- humble
- religiously inclined
- loyal
Aesthetic Qualities
The name 'Pavlos' has a balanced and clean typographic character, with its strong consonant sounds and classical roots matching well with Australian aesthetics emphasizing multicultural sophistication.
Geographical Distribution
Most prevalent in Greek-Australian communities, particularly in Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide; less common in rural or non-Greek areas. Within cities, sometimes more popular in neighbourhoods with a higher density of Greek immigrants.
Numerological Significance
Number 9, associated with humanitarianism and idealism, often linked with compassionate and philosophical characters—attributes sometimes ascribed to the name today.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological associations; the name’s significance is primarily cultural and religious, but individuals named Pavlos may be connected to traits associated with the Cancer or Pisces zodiac signs, which are considerate and introspective.
Historical Context
Saint Paul, known for his epistles in the New Testament; widespread use of the name in Christian history; diaspora communities in Australia maintaining cultural traditions through naming.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name retains its Greek pronunciation in Australia but is sometimes anglicised for ease, such as 'Pavlos' or occasionally 'Paul'. It adapts well across languages, maintaining its cultural roots.
Famous People Named pavlos
- Pavlos Kontogiannis (Australian-Greek businessman)
- Pavlos Kyriakou (Greek media mogul, known in Australia through Greek diaspora networks)
- Fictional characters with the name are rare but often portray traditional Greek values in Aussie literature.
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 1 |