Paulene

Meaning & origin

Paulene is a gentle, old-fashioned name that enjoyed its moment in the early 20th century. First recorded in the U.S. in 1907, it reached its peak popularity in 1920 and has since settled into quiet obscurity. The name never entered the national top 1,000, indicating it was never widely common but held steady usage, especially in the 1920s. Its trajectory remains stable, suggesting a small but consistent number of parents rediscover it each year. While no top states are associated with Paulene, it fits alongside other vintage feminine names like Josephine and Bernadette. The name's appeal lies in its soft sound and connection to the enduring classic Paul.

Paulene is a variant of Pauline, itself the French feminine form of Paul, which derives from the Latin 'Paulus' meaning 'small' or 'humble'. The name Paul was borne by the apostle Paul, whose Latin name Paulus was adopted throughout Christendom. The feminine Pauline emerged in France and became popular in English-speaking countries in the 19th century, with variants like Paulene arising as spelling adaptations.