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Sula Girl

Popularity: #939 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: SOO-lah /ˈsuːlə/

Origin: Arabic; African

Meaning: Arabic: 'peace'; African: 'to be calm'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sula has its roots in various linguistic traditions, with potential origins in Hebrew and Arabic. In Hebrew, the name is often associated with the word "sula," which means "to be peaceful" or "tranquil." This connection to peace is significant in many cultures, as it evokes a sense of calm and serenity.

The Arabic influence may also contribute to the name's meaning, with similar phonetic structures found in Arabic names that convey notions of tranquility and beauty. The name Sula entered the English lexicon through various cultural exchanges, particularly during the periods of trade and interaction between the Middle East and Europe, where names often traveled alongside cultural practices and religious beliefs.

Historically, the name Sula has been linked to notable figures and events. One prominent association is with Sula, a character in the biblical Book of Ruth, which has been a significant text in Jewish and Christian traditions since its composition in the early centuries of the Common Era.

The name also appears in various literary works, including Toni Morrison's novel "Sula," published in 1973, which explores themes of friendship, community, and the complexities of female identity. This literary connection has contributed to the name's resonance in cultural discussions surrounding gender and race.

Culturally, Sula embodies themes of strength and resilience, often symbolizing a deep connection to heritage and identity. The name's association with peace and tranquility has made it a meaningful choice in various traditions, reflecting the values of harmony and stability.

Additionally, diminutive forms such as Sully may arise in familial or affectionate contexts, further embedding the name within personal and cultural narratives. Overall, Sula carries a rich tapestry of meanings and associations that reflect its historical and cultural significance.

Famous people named Sula

Sula is a fictional character in the novel Sula by Toni Morrison, known for her complex relationship with her childhood friend Nel.

Fictional characters named Sula

Sula Peace is a fictional character from the novel Sula by Toni Morrison. She is a complex woman who challenges societal norms and embodies themes of friendship and betrayal.

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U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sula was first seen in the United States in 1880. Sula has ranked as high as #850 nationally, which occurred in 1921, and has been most popular in North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, and Arkansas. In the past 5 years the name Sula has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sula (1946)

State Births Share
KY 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18809
18816
188210
18837
188412
18857
188610
188712
188818
188917
189014
189118
189216
189315
189412
189512
189622
189716
189817
189918
190027
190119
19029
190314
190415
190516
190617
190722
190819
190917
191015
191123
191214
191327
191432
191527
191628
191731
191826
191928
192025
192134
192222
192324
192423
192528
192621
192720
19289
192917
193018
193112
193218
193315
193421
193518
193612
193716
19389
193912
194011
194113
194212
194316
194417
194510
194619
194710
194815
194913
19508
19518
19536
19587
195910
19605
19616
19675
19686
20045
20056
20098
20116
20128
20139
20149
201510
20166
201710
20189
20209
202111
202210
20235
202411