Paul Downes

Name meaning, origin and global statistics

Paul Downes — humble
1.4 million People worldwide
United States Most common in
1970s Peak popularity
Gender
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Paul Downes is a name that combines Latin origins. The first name Paul is a masculine given name of Latin origin. From the Latin Paulus, meaning "small" or "humble." The apostle Paul was the most influential early Christian missionary. The surname Downes: Aaron Downes (born 1985), Australian footballer Aidan Downes (born 1988), Irish footballer Alexander Downes (1868–1950), Australian-born rugby player and cricketer who relocated to New Zealand Andrew Downes (scholar) (c. 1549–1628), English classical scholar Andrew Downes (composer) (1950–2023), British classical composer Arthur Downes (1883–1956), Scottish sailor who competed at the 1908 Summer Olympics Arthur Downes (police officer) (1895–1984), British-born New Zealand soldier, clerk, salesman and policeman Austin Downes (1905–1979), American football player at the University of Georgia Bes. Paul is one of the most widespread first names worldwide, carried by approximately 1.4 million people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Paul reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: Paul

Meaning: humble

Latin

From the Latin Paulus, meaning "small" or "humble." The apostle Paul was the most influential early Christian missionary.

Surname: Downes

Irish

Aaron Downes (born 1985), Australian footballer Aidan Downes (born 1988), Irish footballer Alexander Downes (1868–1950), Australian-born rugby player and cricketer who relocated to New Zealand Andrew Downes (scholar) (c. 1549–1628), English classical scholar Andrew Downes (composer) (1950–2023), British classical composer Arthur Downes (1883–1956), Scottish sailor who competed at the 1908 Summer Olympics Arthur Downes (police officer) (1895–1984), British-born New Zealand soldier, clerk, salesman and policeman Austin Downes (1905–1979), American football player at the University of Georgia Bes.

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Geographic Distribution

The first name Paul is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 34%
Italy 15%
Spain 12%
Brazil 17%
France 10%
Mexico 12%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name Paul by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s
1910s
1920s
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
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Name Variants & Related Names

The name Paul has several variants and related forms across different languages and cultures:

  • Paolo
  • Pablo
  • Pavel
  • Paulus
  • Pol

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Paul Downes:

4
Expression Number

Stability and hard work. Represents practicality, reliability and dedication — someone who builds solid foundations.

6
Soul Urge Number

Nurturing and responsibility. Associated with care, family values and a strong sense of duty towards loved ones.

7
Personality Number

Wisdom and introspection. A deep, analytical mind drawn to philosophy, spirituality and the search for truth.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name Paul?
The first name Paul originates from Latin. From the Latin Paulus, meaning "small" or "humble." The apostle Paul was the most influential early Christian missionary.
When was Paul most popular?
The name Paul reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
What is the origin of the surname Downes?
The surname Downes originates from Irish. Aaron Downes (born 1985), Australian footballer Aidan Downes (born 1988), Irish footballer Alexander Downes (1868–1950), Australian-born rugby player and cricketer who relocated to New Zealand Andrew Downes (scholar) (c. 1549–1628), English classical scholar Andrew Downes (composer) (1950–2023), British classical composer Arthur Downes (1883–1956), Scottish sailor who competed at the 1908 Summer Olympics Arthur Downes (police officer) (1895–1984), British-born New Zealand soldier, clerk, salesman and policeman Austin Downes (1905–1979), American football player at the University of Georgia Bes.
What are the origins of the name Paul Downes?
The name Paul Downes combines two different traditions: the first name Paul has Latin roots, while the surname Downes originates from Irish.
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