Lula began as a pet form of names such as Louisa, Lucille and Tallulah and so carries their meanings, most often "famous warrior" from Louisa. It was a common American name around 1900 and now returns with the vintage revival that also brought back Lola and Luna. Lula ranked number 7845 in 2000, reached number 1513 in 2021 and stands at number 1937 in 2025.