Nuala

girlIrish

Nuala is an girl name of Irish origin, meaning “White shoulder”.

MeaningWhite shoulder
GenderGirl
OriginIrish
PronunciationNOO-lah
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inIreland, Northern Ireland

Meaning and origin of Nuala

Nuala is a short form of Fionnuala, from fionn 'white, fair' and guala 'shoulder'. It became a name in its own right in the twentieth century. It keeps a link to the swan maiden of the Children of Lir legend while being easier to spell and say. In some modern fantasy writing Nuala is also used for fairy characters.

Is Nuala a religious name?

Like Fionnuala, Nuala comes from Irish legend and has no religious meaning.

How popular is Nuala?

A known name in Ireland, more common in older generations.

Gifts with the name Nuala

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Spellings and variants of Nuala

FionnualaFinolaNoola

Names similar to Nuala

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Nuala mean?

Nuala means 'White shoulder'. It is of Irish origin.

Does Nuala have a religious meaning?

Like Fionnuala, Nuala comes from Irish legend and has no religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Nuala?

Nuala is pronounced NOO-lah.

Is Nuala a boy or girl name?

Nuala is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.