The feminine form of the Roman family name Julius, likely derived from the Greek word ioulos, (ἴουλος), meaning "downy-haired". Several early saints and martyrs bore the name. It was also used by Shakespeare in his comedy The Two Gentlemen of Verona (1594). It has been common as a given name in the English-speaking world since the 18th century and enjoyed relative popularity in the early-mid 20th century and again in the early 21st century.