Holding steady.
Popularity of Thula since 1886
Babies named Thula per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1921, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Thula's real moment was 1886.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 28 |
| 1910s | 45 |
| 1920s | 52 |
| 1930s | 23 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Thula is a rare and delicate name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1886, but it has never entered the top 1000, reflecting its consistent rarity over time. Its peak year of usage was 1886 itself, suggesting it may have been a unique choice by a few families. In recent years (including 2025), the name remains unranked, with fewer than five births annually. While its exact origin is debated, the Zulu meaning of 'quiet' or 'peace' gives it a serene, grounded quality. Parents drawn to uncommon, soft-sounding names might appreciate Thula's understated charm. Though no top states are recorded, it likely appears sporadically across the country. Thula's trajectory has been stable but minimal, a true hidden gem for those seeking something distinctive.
Thula is a name of uncertain and likely multiple origins. It may derive from the Zulu word 'thula', meaning 'to be quiet' or 'peace', giving it a gentle, calm significance. Alternatively, it could be a variant of Tula, a short form of names like Tallulah or a name of Sanskrit origin meaning 'balance'. In American usage, it may also be a modern coinage inspired by similar-sounding names. The name has seen sporadic use in the United States since the late 19th century, never achieving widespread popularity.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Thuly
Variants: Tula
Sibling names for Thula
Names that share Thula's style, for a brother or sister.
