Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Orsola

      Origin

      Italian

      Meaning

      Derived from Orsola, Meaning Little Bear

      Variations

      Oriola, Orsala, Ursola
      The name Orsola is of Italian origin and is derived from the Latin name Ursula, which means little bear. This diminutive form suggests a sense of affection and endearment, encapsulating qualities often associated with bears, such as strength and nurturing. As a name, Orsola carries with it both elegance and a touch of whimsy, appealing to those who appreciate its historical roots and poetic connotations.

      Historically, the name Orsola is notably connected to Saint Ursula, a Christian martyr and virgin who was venerated in various cultures throughout Europe. According to legend, Saint Ursula was the daughter of a Christian king and led a group of 11,000 virgins to martyrdom in the 4th or 5th century. Her story, particularly popular in medieval times, contributed to the name's popularity in Italy and other regions. Works of art, literature, and religious texts have frequently referenced Saint Ursula, further embedding the name within the historical lexicon.

      In contemporary Italy and other parts of the world, the name Orsola remains a charming choice for girls, often associated with traditional values and cultural heritage. While it is not among the most common names today, it resonates with parents seeking unique names with historical significance. Orsola is sometimes found in literature and the arts, portraying characters that embody strength, independence, and a deep connection to heritage. Additionally, the name's enduring legacy ensures that it retains its appeal, celebrated in various forms and adaptations across different cultures.

      Based on our records...

      Esposito

      Esposito

      This is the most common surname associated with Orsola.
      Giuseppe

      Giuseppe

      This is the most common name of those married to a Orsola.
      Maria

      Maria

      This is the most common name for a child of a Orsola.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1800 is when there were the most people born with the first name Orsola.

      Explore the origins of another name.