The surname De Paula has Latin and Portuguese origins. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally derived from the name of an ancestor.
Origin:
- “De” is a preposition meaning “of” or “from” in various Romance languages.
- “Paula” is derived from the Latin name “Paulus,” meaning “small” or “humble.”
Therefore, De Paula essentially means “of Paula” or “son/daughter of Paula.”
The name Paula itself has biblical roots, being the feminine form of Paul. Saint Paula was a notable Roman saint and patron of widows.
De Paula is most commonly found in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil and Portugal. It’s also present in Spanish-speaking countries, sometimes spelled as “de Paula.”
In Brazil, it’s often seen as part of compound surnames, such as “Silva de Paula” or “Oliveira de Paula.”
Notable people with this surname include:
- Francisca de Paula de Jesus (1808-1895), Brazilian religious leader
- João de Paula, Brazilian footballer
The surname De Paula carries with it a sense of heritage and connection to Latin and Iberian culture.
