Pál

Pál Origin and Meaning

The name Pál is a boy's name.

Pál is a masculine Hungarian form of Paul, derived from the Latin name Paulus meaning 'small' or 'humble.' Despite its short form, the name carries significant cultural weight in Hungary, where it has been used for centuries. Notable bearers include Hungarian composers, artists, and historical figures. The accent over the 'a' creates a distinctive pronunciation (similar to 'pahl') that distinguishes it from the English Paul. Outside of Hungary and neighboring regions, Pál remains uncommon, giving it an exotic quality while still being relatively easy for non-Hungarian speakers to pronounce. The name combines cultural specificity with biblical heritage, as Paul was a significant apostle in Christian tradition.