Ulla: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are traditional celebrations, especially common in European Catholic and Orthodox cultures, where individuals celebrate the day associated with their given name rather than their birthday. The name Ulla, though rare in the United States, carries a rich historical background tied to Germanic and Scandinavian diminutives meaning "ruler of all" or "little bear." This classic name projects a strong, crisp, and elegantly vintage mood. Furthermore, Ulla is recognized on multiple name days throughout the calendar year, including July 4th in Nordic countries and October 21st in Estonia and Austria. This robust history highlights its enduring cultural presence.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Ulla's name day is celebrated
on February 19 in Estonia (Ülla),
May 8 in Austria,
July 4 in Finland, Norway and Sweden,
October 21 in Austria and Estonia and
October 30 in Latvia.

The Story Behind This Name

Ulla remains a distinctly uncommon name within the United States, rarely featuring in official top baby name lists. Its history of use in America is often tied to communities stemming from Northern European immigration, particularly Scandinavian and Germanic populations. Because of its scarcity, Ulla carries an exotic or distinctly foreign feel when encountered by most Americans. While its peak usage periods in the US were very low, typically mid-20th century, it has never achieved widespread recognition or popularity. Consequently, it is largely considered a vintage European import rather than a modern American staple.

Name origin and meaning

The name Ulla is primarily recognized as a short form or diminutive derived from several longer Germanic and Scandinavian names. Most commonly, it serves as a nickname for Ulrika, which translates from Old German roots to mean "ruler of all" or "power of the homeland." Alternatively, Ulla is sometimes linked to Ursula, originating from the Latin word *ursa* meaning "little bear." Due to its widespread usage across Northern Europe, it also carries potential associations with Old Norse elements relating to prosperity or wealth. This dual etymology gives the name a complex and historically layered background.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Ulla is overwhelmingly identified as a female name across the globe. This strong feminine classification is consistent throughout the regions where the name is most common, particularly Scandinavia and Germanic countries like Sweden, Finland, and Germany. There are virtually no documented instances of Ulla being used for males, establishing it firmly in the feminine category. The long-established history of its use as a diminutive of strictly female names reinforces this gender identity. Therefore, Ulla functions universally as a traditionally female personal identifier.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

Ulla projects a mood that is crisp, classic, and refreshingly strong without being overly severe. The name carries a distinct Northern European or Nordic tone, evoking images of vintage elegance and sturdy simplicity. It feels refined yet approachable, suggesting a personality that is grounded and straightforward. There is a playful, almost sophisticated sharpness to the sound, giving it a vibrant energy. Overall, Ulla possesses a distinguished, vintage charm that is both memorable and enduring.

Mirror Magic: Ulla & Allu

Some names hold a hidden surprise—when reversed, they reveal another beautiful and valid name. This playful symmetry adds a unique charm, making the pair feel like secret reflections of each other. Whether by chance or design, these reversible names create a fascinating linguistic connection between two identities.

See also: Allu: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Ulla

Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.

Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name

Destiny number: 1 – The Leader.
Keywords: Independence, ambition, innovation, leadership, determination.
Positive Traits: Self-motivated, original thinker, confident, goal-oriented, strong-willed.
Challenges: Can be stubborn, impatient, egotistical, or overly competitive.
Life Path Meaning: A path of leadership, individuality, and pioneering new ideas.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 4 - The Builder.
Traits: Practical, disciplined, hardworking, stable.
Strengths: Reliable, strong work ethic, good organizer, structured.
Challenges: Can be rigid, stubborn, or struggle with change.

The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You

The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Sun - Leadership, Confidence, Vitality.
The Sun represents power, authority, and self-expression. Names influenced by the Sun often belong to individuals who are natural-born leaders, radiating warmth, charisma, and creativity. They tend to have a strong presence, a sense of purpose, and a desire for recognition. Sun-ruled names often evoke images of brightness, strength, and nobility.

Name days: Name Ulla

This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Estonia	February	19	Ülla, Ülle, Ülli, Ülve, Ülvi
Austria	May	8	Ida, Klara, Ulla, Ulrike
Finland	July	4	Ulla, Ulpu
Norway	July	4	Ulla, Ulrik
Sweden	July	4	Ulla, Ulrika
Austria	October	21	Karl, Ulla, Ursula
Estonia	October	21	Ulla, Ulrika, Ursula
Latvia	October	30	Algards, Nadina, Ratne, Ulla, Venera

Name days: Similar names (Ulla)

Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
USA	January	6	Cheyanne, Cheyenne, Howell, Hoyle, Kahlil, Khalil, Melchior, Rowan, Talullah, Tiffani, Tiffanie, Tiffany
Estonia	August	16	Aulis, Aurel, Kuldar, Kullar, Kullo
Estonia	September	1	Ülar, Ülari, Ülev, Üllar, Üllart, Üllas, Üllo, Ülo
USA	November	12	Colan, Colin, Colleen, Collin, Cullan, Cullen, Culver, Kiley, Kyla, Kyle, Kylee, Kyleigh, Kyler, Kylier
Estonia	December	15	Kalli, Kelli, Killu, Kulla

Ulla A Distinctly Vintage Identity

Ulla is a distinctively female name primarily recognized across Europe, holding very limited visibility in the USA. Its origins are linked to powerful root names like Ulrika and Ursula, instilling a sense of historical strength. The mood projected by Ulla is uniquely vintage, crisp, and elegantly sturdy. Given its strong association with Northern Europe, it enjoys numerous name day celebrations, occurring on dates such as May 8th, July 4th, and October 21st across several European nations. Ulla offers an international, powerful, yet simple identity for a child.

When Is Your Name Day?

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