Meaning & History
Ulla is a feminine given name with multiple origins.
Etymology
In German-speaking countries, Ulla is a diminutive of Ursula, meaning "little she-bear." In Scandinavian countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, it is derived from Ulrika (Swedish and German feminine form of Ulrich, meaning "heritage ruler") or from Hulda (meaning "latent, covered" in Old Norse, or "battle, fight" in German).
Usage and Popularity
As of 31 December 2011, there were 61,043 females named Ulla in Sweden, with the name being most popular during the 1930s and 40s. As of 7 June 2010, there were 25,959 females named Ulla in Finland, most born between 1940 and 1979. The name peaked in the 1930s–50s across Scandinavia.
Cultural Significance
Ulla has been used in the Talmud as the name of a 3rd–4th century rabbi, though this is a masculine form. In Sweden, it was common among noble families in the 18th century: notable bearers include Ulla Adlerfelt (painter), Ulla von Höpken (socialite), Ulla Tessin (countess), and Ulla Stenberg (damask maker). In recent times, the name has appeared in popular culture, such as Ulla Vogt in literature and Ulla-Lena Lundberg in comics.
Related Forms
Variants in Finnish include Riika and Riikka, also diminutives of Ulrika. In German, Ursel and Uschi are further shortenings of Ursula. The masculine counterpart is Ulrik, and other languages have forms like Oldřiška (Czech), Ursella (English), Ursule (French), and Orsolya (Hungarian).
- Meaning: heritage ruler (from Ulrika) or little she-bear (from Ursula)
- Origin: Scandinavian and German
- Type: Female name, diminutive
- Usage: Danish, Finnish, German, Swedish
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Ulla