Name meaning

Ursula Name Meaning - Little bear (German)

Meaning: Little bear
Origin: German
Gender: Girl
Pronunciation: U-RSU-LA

Ursula means "Little bear" (German). Etymologically, Ursula belongs to German naming and is usually defined as "Little bear." Means little female bear; Saint Ursula was a legendary martyr.

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Meaning and Linguistic Breakdown

Etymologically, Ursula belongs to German naming and is usually defined as "Little bear." Means little female bear; Saint Ursula was a legendary martyr.

Origin and Historical Usage

Ursula appears in German naming records with the sense "Little bear." Usage varies by region and parish or civil registry traditions.

Pronunciation Guide

Phonetic: U-RSU-LA
Syllables: 3

Geographic and Cultural Usage

Ursula is heard in German-heritage families and among parents who want a name tied to German sound. English speakers may need one pronunciation cue; after that it is usually easy to remember.

Popularity

Ursula is not a current top-chart name in most English-speaking registries — a plus for parents avoiding classroom duplicates.

Notable People Named Ursula

S
Saint Ursula
U
Ursula K. Le Guin

Variants and Related Names

Spelling variants

Urs — alternate form of Ursula

Related names

Käthe

Same German naming tradition

"Pure"

Ilse

Same German naming tradition

"Pledge of God"

Luise

Same German naming tradition

"Famous warrior"

Renate

Same German naming tradition

"Reborn"

Gudrun

Same German naming tradition

"God secret"

Adelheid

Same German naming tradition

"Noble kind"

Frequently Asked Questions about Ursula

What does Ursula mean?

Ursula means "Little bear" in German tradition. Etymologically, Ursula belongs to German naming and is usually defined as "Little bear." Means little female bear; Saint Ursula was a legendary martyr.

How do you pronounce Ursula?

Ursula is pronounced U-RSU-LA (3 syllables).

What language is Ursula from?

Ursula comes from German. Ursula appears in German naming records with the sense "Little bear." Usage varies by region and parish or civil registry traditions.

Is Ursula a boy or girl name?

Ursula is primarily used as a girl's name.

What does Ursula mean in English?

English references usually translate Ursula as "Little bear." It is not an English word; the gloss comes from German.

Is Ursula a rare name?

Ursula is not a current top-chart name in most English-speaking registries — a plus for parents avoiding classroom duplicates.

What is the origin of the name Ursula?

Ursula appears in German naming records with the sense "Little bear." Usage varies by region and parish or civil registry traditions.

What are variants of Ursula?

Documented forms include: Urs.

Who are famous people named Ursula?

Notable bearers include Saint Ursula, Ursula K. Le Guin.

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