Meaning & History
Pavlína is the Czech and Slovak feminine given name, equivalent to Paulina. It is a direct borrowing of the Latin name Paula, the feminine form of Paulus (see Paul), meaning 'small' or 'humble'. The name is widely used in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with a strong traditional presence.
Etymology
Pavlína derives from the Roman family name Paulinus, which itself originates from Paulus. The root name, Paulino, is the Spanish and Portuguese form, while the feminine Paulina is the source for Pavlína. Similar variants include Paulína (Slovak) and Pavlina (Slovene).
Cultural Significance
Pavlína has been popular especially in Czech-speaking regions since the 19th century. It is traditional among Catholic families, honoring saints like Paulinus of Nola, a 5th-century bishop and poet, and Paulinus of York, a 7th-century missionary. The name is cognate with Polina in Ukrainian and Palina in Belarusian.
- Meaning: small, humble
- Origin: Latin Paulinus from Paulus
- Type: Feminine given name
- Usage: Czech, Slovak
Related Names
Sources: Wiktionary — Pavlína