The name Paula is of Latin origin, meaning "small" or "humble," derived from the Roman family name Paulus. Popularized by Saint Paul the Apostle, it first appeared as a Christian given name in the 2nd century AD through Paula the Elder, a prominent early Christian woman. Throughout history, notable figures like Paula Modersohn-Becker and Paula Radcliffe have carried this enduring name, which remains popular globally today despite its humble meaning.