Paulo

boyLatinChristian

Paulo is a Christian boy name of Latin, via Portuguese origin, meaning “Small, humble”.

MeaningSmall, humble
GenderBoy
OriginLatin, via Portuguese
PronunciationPOW-loo
TraditionChristian
Used inBrazil, Portugal, Angola

Meaning and origin of Paulo

Paulo is the Portuguese form of Paul, from the Roman family name Paulus, meaning small or humble. The name's fame comes from the apostle Paul, originally named Saul, whose letters make up much of the New Testament. In Portugal and Brazil, Paulo is a long-standing favourite and appears in names like São Paulo, Brazil's largest city. Brazilian novelist Paulo Coelho and educator Paulo Freire are notable bearers.

Is Paulo a Christian name?

Saint Paul is the great missionary apostle of the New Testament, whose conversion on the road to Damascus is told in Acts 9.

How popular is Paulo?

A classic name in Brazil and Portugal, more common among adults than newborns today.

Gifts with the name Paulo

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Spellings and variants of Paulo

Names similar to Paulo

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Paulo mean?

Paulo means 'Small, humble'. It is of Latin, via Portuguese origin.

Is Paulo a Christian name?

Saint Paul is the great missionary apostle of the New Testament, whose conversion on the road to Damascus is told in Acts 9.

How do you pronounce Paulo?

Paulo is pronounced POW-loo.

Is Paulo a boy or girl name?

Paulo is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.